With the cool sniff of autumn in the air, swimming pools are reopening across Hong Kong. But even on a tranquil morning, you can feel the heavy hand of regulation in the water as swimming clubs and other groups jockey for time slots at the city’s municipal lanes.
Swimming pools were supposed to have opened last Thursday under a phase-two easing of social distancing rules, but a mix up between the government and unions meant that 38 public pools would remain closed for another week to be cleaned and disinfected. The miscommunication was the latest blow to Hong Kong’s swimming industry, already reeling from a strike by lifeguards that has left nearly half of the city’s pools closed this summer.
Despite the disruptions, pool season is off to a strong start with HKJC achieving a 24% year-on-year turnover increase. That was largely due to strong betting support from the UK and Ireland, where World Pool is played on the international pari-mutuel market. “We’re thrilled with the performance of our pools in the UK and Ireland,” said Michael Fitzsimons, executive director of wagering products at HKJC. “We’ve seen a significant rise in turnover from the market, which is particularly encouraging given the challenging economic conditions.”
The Jordan Valley pool in Kwun Tong has small slides and animal fountains to keep kids entertained. Closed for cleaning on Tuesdays.
If you’re looking for something a little more thrilling, head to Ma On Shan and check out Hong Kong’s best water slides, which are part of a larger water sports centre, including four indoor pools and three outdoor leisure pools. There are also a number of toddler, training and Olympic pools as well.
Victoria Park Swimming Pool
One of the most modern and impressive pools in Hong Kong, the new HK$800 million Victoria Park complex has a 50 by 25 metre main pool, accompanied by a diving and multi-purpose pool, as well as the largest swimming pool spectator stand in the city that can seat 2,500 people. You can also sign up for a wellness membership at the hefty price tag of HK$65,000 per person (HK$120,000 per couple) that includes full access to the pool and fitness centre as well as other facilities.
There are 44 public swimming pools in Hong Kong managed by LCSD, with 9 on Hong Kong Island, 13 in Kowloon and 22 in the New Territories. The rates are HK$17 on weekdays and HK$19 on weekends, with discounted fees for children, students and senior citizens. You can get more information on the LCSD website. Some pools are open until October while others shut for maintenance during the winter.