On August 29, 2024, athletes from the mainland who participated in the Paris Olympics were greeted in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) for a visit scheduled to last three days. This trip follows their record-breaking performance at an overseas Olympics and aims to strengthen the connections between Hong Kong and the mainland through sports and cultural activities, as well as to instill a sense of national pride among the local populace.

Eric Chan Kwok-ki, the chief secretary for administration in HKSAR, was present to welcome the team, expressing gratitude for their visit so soon after the Olympics which allows Hong Kong residents to engage with the country's finest athletes. Gao Zhidan, the director of the General Administration of Sport of China and head of the delegation, highlighted the importance of interactions with the local government and community, particularly with the youth, to share skills and strengthen ties.

The excitement among Hong Kong residents was palpable, with many gathering outside the athletes' hotel in hopes of seeing their Olympic heroes. Kennedy Wong Ying-ho, a member of the HKSAR Legislative Council, remarked on the vibrant atmosphere during the athletes' arrival, underscoring the delegation's visit as a demonstration of the central government's concern for Hong Kong.

The overwhelming cheers from the crowd reflected the joy and pride felt by the community, as the athletes serve as inspiring figures for youth, according to Zhang Bin, a sports commentator based in Beijing. He believes that the Olympians' stories of resilience can motivate young people in Hong Kong to develop a passion for sports and contribute positively to the local sporting landscape.