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As the 1999 Police and Fire Games draw near, a young gun from the Emergency Unit of Hong Kong Island is undergoing rigorous training in efforts to strike gold in the squash event.
Police Constable Carven Ng is one of the Force's top-ranking squash players and has been making a name for himself around the Hong Kong circuit also.
Although young, he is already the holder of a string of medals and trophies and Ng hopes he can continue his winning streak in Sweden, his debut at the event.
"As this is the first time I've represented the Force at this event, getting a medal would mean a lot to me," Ng said.
OffBeat caught up with Ng as he took time-out from his intensive training regime for the Games, which included practising his squash and jogging three times a week, along with a weekly workout in the swimming pool.
 Court confidence: PC Ng takes time out from training in the PHQ squash courts for a photo |
Ng began competing in open squash events in 1991 and has gone on to take a succession of victories from then.
He actually started playing squash as a teenager, picking up the game by watching videotapes.
"I didn't have a chance to receive formal training until I played squash for about two years," he said, adding the formal training was the turning point in his squash career.
"The major difference is that I've learned to protect myself and my counterparts from injuries while playing - the pace of the game is so fast and furious. My skills have improved a lot since the training."
He said squash players were prone to twisted ankles and sprained shoulders.
Yet the most unforgettable injury experience was when he was hurt in a struggle while arresting a suspect.
"I hurt my shoulder and had to play in an open match the next day. I thought it would be okay and continued to play, but the pain became so intense laterI had to pull out."
Ng joined the Police Squash Club as soon as he was recruited into the Force.
He has since represented the Hong Kong Police in several overseas events such as friendly matches in Malaysia in 1996, and South Korea last year.
His passion for the game is not only reflected in his game performances but also with his dedication to guiding beginners. He teaches a beginners course at the Police Sports and Recreation Club organised by the squash club free of charge. "In fact, the sports facilities provided by the Force are quite good and I hope more staff can fully utilise the available resources."
Ng said one of the things that makes him so dedicated to the sport is its stress-relieving qualities. "Squash is not just an exciting game, although exhausted, you also feel relaxed after the match."
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