A Hong Kong baseball player's dedication and sacrifice are about to be showcased at the National Games, but this journey has been far from easy. Egon Chan Cheuk-kiu, a 31-year-old senior member of the team, has had to balance his passion for baseball with a demanding career. And here's where it gets controversial: is it worth it?
Chan, a business risk specialist at DBS, has dedicated his annual leave to representing Hong Kong in international tournaments. He hasn't taken a holiday in five years, choosing instead to immerse himself in the sport he loves. "I use all my time off for baseball," he says, "and it's a choice I make, even if it means apologizing to my family."
But this isn't just about personal sacrifice. Chan's parents have been his biggest supporters since he started playing at the tender age of five. They understood the commitment required, with long hours of training and tournaments ahead.
Every day, Chan commutes from his office in West Kowloon to Lam Tin, where he practices for three hours starting at 7 pm. And then there's the long journey back home to Yuen Long. It's a grueling schedule, but Chan is determined to make it work.
"The huge struggle will pay off," he says, looking forward to stepping into the National Games arena. But is it truly worth sacrificing personal time and holidays for a sport? And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the games; it's about the dedication and the journey.
What do you think? Is Chan's sacrifice justified, or is there a better way to balance work and passion? Share your thoughts in the comments; let's spark a discussion!
