Elite sports training opens new doors for Hong Kong youth

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In Kai Tak Arena, under bright lights, a group of young fencers crossed blades in a demonstration bout that drew sharp intakes of breath from the crowd. Silver medallist Ho Sze-long from the 15th National Games of China faced off against Chan Lok-hei, a two-time junior silver medallist in Hong Kong, their movements precise and swift. Nearby, nearly 170 young fencers competed in the Champions Cup for 20 coveted places in a 1.5-year elite training programme fully sponsored by CTF Life.

Fencing finale at Kai Tak Arena 

The event marked the finale of the “Fencing Plus” Training Programme, title-sponsored by CTF Life and organised by Kai Tak Sports Initiative (KTSI).

Launched in May 2025, the programme attracted nearly 800 participants aged 6 to 12 in its first stage. Following several rounds of selection, more than 100 advanced to the Champions Cup, where the strongest performers earned places in structured long-term coaching designed to prepare them for local and regional competitions. Outstanding participants may eventually progress to Hong Kong elite fencing training system.

CTF Life is the Title Sponsor of the KTSI “Fencing Plus” Training Programme. To mark its successful conclusion, the Champions Cup & Commencement was held at Kai Tak Arena, with more than 100 participants competing for top honours and showcasing their acquired techniques. 

“CTF Life has a 40-year legacy in Hong Kong, and we have been playing an important role in society through our commitment to the community,” said Man Kit Ip, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of CTF Life.

The title sponsorship of the KTSI “Fencing Plus” Training Programme is a meaningful step forward in supporting Hong Kong sports development and nurturing local talent, said Ip.

“Through systematic and professional training, participants receive comprehensive coaching and gain the chance to progress to elite sports programmes in Hong Kong, laying a solid foundation for their future development as professional athletes,” said Tang King-shing, Director (Strategic Planning) of Kai Tak Sports Park. 

Football partnership with PSG Academy 

A parallel initiative focuses on football talent. In January, CTF Life announced the extension of its exclusive collaboration with Paris Saint-Germain Academy (Greater Bay Area, China).

The three-year partnership brings Paris Saint-Germain’s training methodology to young players across Hong Kong, Macau and selected cities in the Chinese mainland, with sessions led by UEFA-certified coaches. The training focuses on developing technical skills, teamwork and sportsmanship in a supportive environment.

“Partnering with a forward-thinking insurer like CTF Life allows us to do more than just teach football. It helps us build a solid foundation for the next generation. We share a common vision of empowering young people to pursue their ambitions with confidence,” said Yannick Ngassa, Chief Executive Officer of PSG Academy (Greater Bay Area, China).

Participants will benefit from regular training sessions and exclusive experiences. More than 20 young athletes from Hong Kong have been selected to represent the local PSG Academy (Greater Bay Area, China) team at the PSG Academy World Cup, scheduled for 8-14 May at Parc des Princes in Paris, including five participants from CTF Life · CIRCLE members who joined the selection through priority registration.

The collaboration also supported the GBA CUP Youth Sports Tournament 2025 in Guangzhou, where over 600 young athletes from 17 schools and clubs in Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Foshan competed. The tournament fostered athletic spirit, collaboration and cultural connections across the Greater Bay Area. 

“Our work with PSG Academy (Greater Bay Area, China) forms a vital part of a much broader, integrated commitment from CTF Life to support long-term youth and sports. This is a journey we are proud to continue with PSG Academy,” said Man Kit Ip, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of CTF Life. 

CTF Life’s commitment to youth and community 

Both the fencing and football initiatives reflect CTF Life’s broader commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting sports development in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area. 

They also provide opportunities for members of CTF Life · CIRCLE, the company’s integrated membership programme that offers priority access to selected activities and exclusive lifestyle experiences through the Chow Tai Fook Group ecosystem.

Applications for the next edition of the KTSI “Fencing Plus” Training Programme are open until 7 April 2026.

“By deepening collaboration with our partners, we open meaningful pathways for the next generation, support their holistic development and build a vibrant community – a clear demonstration of our commitment to creating value beyond insurance,” Ip concluded.