http://maigoc2007.sports.sina.com.cn 2007-07-18 MAIGOC
To mark the 100-day countdown as a key stage for the upcoming 2nd Asian Indoor Games, the Macao 2nd Asian Indoor Games Organising Committee (MAIGOC) launched a series of commemorative activities, including Countdown Clock Inauguration and Anthem Announcement, at the Macau Fisherman’s Wharf yesterday (18 July).
Games booths and sports parade
Bringing audiences’ attention closer to the Games the celebrations were officially kicked off, with games booths and souvenir captivating around the premises. A parade formed by 100 athletes representing the sports program of the 2AIG, led by the drummers, also marched from the Rocks Hotel to the Roman Amphitheatre, attracting crowds along the way.
Chief Executive presides over Countdown Clock Inauguration
After the sports parade, the ceremony for the Countdown Clock Inauguration and Anthem Announcement, presided over by the Chief Executive of Macao SAR Government Mr. Edmund Ho Hau Wah and the honorary guests, was initiated under the eyes of more than 1,300 spectators. Besides the 7.5m high Countdown Clock located at the Macau Fisherman’s Wharf, another Countdown Clock was set to launch at the Sai Van Lake Square at the same time.
Anthem Announcement
Next to the inauguration of the Countdown Clock was fime for thr announcement of the Anthem. Untitled “Winner” and by the performances of local singers Samtry, German Ku, Sun Fong Meng and Vanessa, the games song received a big applause from the audience. Ending in great style the 2AIG sports were demonstrated through Dragon & Lion Dance, Indoor Cycling, Artistic Cycling, Latin and Standard Sport Dances and Aerobic Gymnastics.
Officiating guests attended the ceremony were: Edmund Ho Hau Wah, Chief Executive of Macau SAR Government, Wang Jinxiang, Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government, Huang Songfu, Deputy Commission of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Fernando, Chui Sai On, Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Kwong Ki Chi, Chairman of Macau Legend Development Ltd, Manuel Silvério, Chairman of the Board of Directors of MAIGOC, and Eddie, Laam Wah Ying, President of Macau Olympic Committee.
More promotion on the 2nd AIG is expected
MAIGOC believes the inauguration of the Countdown Clock and announcement of the Anthem is a significant step to the extensive promotion of the Games. In the 100 days before the opening of the Games, on October 26th 2007, residents and visitors can reach the Games throughout various channels. The next stop will be at the Macau Tower were 7 matches will be performed every weekend between 20 July and 20 August. In addition, the friendly football match of Manchester United and Shenzhen Xiangxue Eisiti will also be held at the Macao Stadium next week.
Mei Mei available for fans
At the day of the ceremony, everyone was excited with the success of the 2AIG Mascot sales launch. The first day was a success and Mei Mei is now available at MAIGOC souvenir shop in the Macau Fisherman’s Wharf.
