Sai Kung Magazine June 2013 by Hong Kong Living Ltd

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The really useful magazine JUNE 2013

PEOPLE 4 Snapped! Sai Kung’s social life. THE PLANNER 6 Happening in June It’s all go. LETTERS 8 Have your say Sharp Peak, say it ain’t so! And give it up for the cows. NEWS 10 What’s going on? In your backyard. FIVE MINUTES WITH 13 Herbal dancer A traditional Chinese medicine practitioner with hidden talents.

LOCAL 14 Trouble at sea Will the crackdown on moorings affect Sai Kung? VINES IN SAI KUNG 16 Sai Kung: our home Dumb campaigns, smart animals and a successful hoax. FEATURE 18 Camps for kids Fun in the sun. FAMILY 24 Easy-peasy parties An online party-planning service for mums. EATING 26 Ye Olde Sai Kung Reviewing the new olde tea cafe. TRAVEL

EDUCATION 34 New school for Lam Tin The new British international school down the hill. OUTDOORS 36 Here be dragons Meet the mums’ dragon-boat team. Plus your guide to the festival. HEALTH & BEAUTY 38 Faking it Adventures in spray tanning. HIKES 40 Dam buster Pete Spurrier cools his heels at High Island Reservoir. BIRD AT MY WINDOW 41 Eurasian magpie David Diskin on Hong Kong birds.

PETS 42 Meet Milky The details on Sai Kung’s favourite cat. Plus Sally Andersen shares her bed. MARKETPLACE 44 Your guide to shops and services Cool stuff to buy and do. CLASSIFIEDS 50 Loads of random useful local stuff. ULTIMATE GUIDE 52 All you need to know Numbers that make life easier. ON PATROL 54 Of cops and robbers Tim Sharpe takes on Spider-Man.

32 The main(land) attraction Shenzhen’s weirdest theme parks. “I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.” – F. Scott Fitzgerald

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people

Photo: Hannah Grogan and Lea Metcalfe

Snapped in Sai Kung.

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say cheese

Share your event photos with us at photo@fastmedia.com.hk. Get snapping!

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planner Jun 7-9 Disney’s Fantasia: Live in Concert The Disney animation is accompanied by a live orchestra – a great way to introduce the kids to the classics. Tickets $180-$380 from www. urbtix.hk. Concert Hall, City Hall, 5 Edinburgh Place, Central.

Until Jun 9 Rubber Duck Your eyes don’t deceive you – that really is a six-storey rubber duckie floating in the harbour. Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui.

Jun 1-15

HHYC 50th Anniversary Hebe Haven Yacht Club has two weeks of events to celebrate its anniversary, starting with a Dinghy Open Regatta on June 1, family disco on June 7, Grand Ball on June 8 and anniversary lunch on June 9. Full details at www.hhyc.org.hk.

Jun 1 Global Yoga Benefit Balance your chakras in a good cause with local yogi Julie More as part of Namaste World’s global happening for Room to Read, in aid of literacy for women in India. $150. 9.15am-10.45am, Victoria Recreation Club, Tai Mong Tsai Road, Sai Kung. Details from juliemore@gmail.com.

Until Jun 16 The Faust Festival More than 60 shows by the talented kids of the local youth theatre group. Tickets $100, children $80 from www.urbtix.hk. McAulay Studio, Hong Kong Arts Centre, 2 Harbour Road, Wan Chai. Details at Festival@FaustWorld.com, 2547 9114.

Until Jun 23 Le French May It’s the annual celebration of French arts, including opera, music, theatre and more. For details, visit www.frenchmay.com.

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Jun 1 British & Irish Lions vs Barbarians

Jun 12 Tuen Ng Festival (Dragon Boat Festival) Hear them roar. The dragon boats take to the water off the Sai Kung waterfront promenade from 8am-1.30pm. See p.36 for details.

Jun 12, 26 Quiz nights

World-class rugby at Hong Kong Stadium. Tickets $750-$1,290 from www.hkticketing. com, 3128 8288.

Testing times at Hebe One O One. 8.30pm, 112 Pak Sha Wan, 2332 5515.

Jun 6 Sai Kung Sampler

Jun 15 Garage sale

The monthly pop-up market at Steamers. 6pm-10pm, 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2792 6991.

Get ready to rummage. 9.30am-1pm, LG3 Car Park, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clearwater Bay, gujean@ust.hk.

Jun 16 Father’s Day

Jun 6 Agua Plus quiz night Teams of six test the grey matter. 8pm, Agua Plus, 72 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 2791 2030.

Give him some love.

Jun 22 Summer Pool Party Get wet at the ultimate summer pool party. 76/F W Hong Kong, 1 Austin Road West, West Kowloon, 3717 2783, wetparties.hk@whotels.com.

happening in june Jun 22 Sai Kung Hash The Sai Kung Hash celebrates its 80th run with a hare around Sai Kung’s prettier parts. Details at sites.google.com/site/saikungsaturdayh3.

Jun 24 Ian Anderson Plays Jethro Tull Likely to bring out the grey-haired crowd. AsiaWorld-Arena, Lantau. Tickets $380-$1,480 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Jun 28-Jul 1 Sesame Street Live Elmo’s Super Heroes take the stage. Star Hall, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets $150-$550 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Jun 28 ESF term ends Parents, they’re all yours.

Book now Jul 22 The xx Live in Hong Kong And selling out fast. Star Hall, KITEC, Kowloon Bay. Tickets$780 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Aug 13 The Smashing Pumpkins Live In town for one night only. AsiaWorld-Expo, Lantau. Tickets $580-$780 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Aug 23-25 Michael Jackson The Immortal Music by MJ, moves by Cirque du Soleil. AsiaWorld-Arena, Lantau. Tickets $245-$1,288 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Sep 25-29 Shakespeare’s Globe The Taming of the Shrew World-class production by the Globe Theatre in London, which recreates Elizabethan staging for Shakespeare’s comedy. Lyric Theatre, HKAPA, Wan Chai. Tickets $265$795 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288.

Aug 15 Linkin Park Living Things Live and rocking the AsiaWorld-Arena, Lantau. Tickets $288-$888 from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288. Details at www.linkinpark.com.

Got an event? We can publish the details for free. Email editor@saikung.com.

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Headline letters

have your say

Sharp Peak pagoda? Lap sap! Stephen Vines, you are wrong (Sai Kung Magazine, May 2013). The government cannot be planning to build a pagoda on top of Sharp Peak, Nam She Tsim. The government denies access to Nam She Tsim. Where the Sharp Peak route leaves the MacLehose, there was once a pagoda, which the government demolished. Now there is a Water Supplies Department notice. Farther along there is another WSD notice: “Warning. Ahead is the water pipeline of the Water Supplies Department and not a hiking path. To avoid any danger or accident, please do not proceed”. It was a footpath for centuries before the WSD contractor dug in the water main.

Picture: Graham Uden

Sharp Peak, pagoda-free.

I’ve seen the top of Sharp Peak in all weathers, deserted and crowded. Spoken with many nationalities, all friendly. Wondered at sightings of the Nam She Tsim Brocken spectre on a rock below and in the cloud alongside. Met a cow munching the summit grass. Said hello to a solitary village dog admiring the view seaward. I doubt any would welcome a fake pagoda. Perhaps the dog. The only disappointment with Sharp Peak is the disrespect of some hikers who drop plastic bottles, cans and lap sap. Better to spend the money to repair the footpath erosion. Iain McLeod, Kei Ling Ha Well spotted! Steve explains the mix-up on p.16.

Let’s hear it for the cows We are students at Clearwater Bay School who have been looking into Sai Kung cows for our Year Six Exhibition. The cows are a wonderful feature of Sai Kung and should be celebrated and protected. With the opening of the new Hong Kong Academy school, there will be a lot of newcomers to the area. While we say welcome, we also want to ask them to respect the cows, not to harm them, feed them or scare them. These cows are loved all across Sai Kung. They already have to put up with increasing traffic jams and litter so please don’t make things worse for the cows! Instead, get involved with Sai Kung Buffalo Watch, a local organisation on Facebook that strives to protect and monitor the cows, and help us make a difference. Felix Brunner and Harry Rostron

Please email your letters to editor@saikung.com. We may edit for length.

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news

Sai Kung Vintage

Gotta Gobi

Good news, vintage lovers. Consignment store Vintage HK has opened a new branch in Sai Kung. Selling retro collectibles from all over the world, including homeware, clothes, accessories and designer jewellery, the quirky store opened its flagship five years ago in Central. The new location is a treasure trove of shabby chic in a suitably vintage environment near AJ’s in the old town. Drop by and say hello to coowners Nadia Ying Iu and Joyce Lei and browse the Bruce Lee posters, glass hanging lamps, Mickey Mouse figurines and mainland oddities such as a charcoal-fuelled wooden babywarmer. 10 Hoi Pong Street, Sai Kung, 2792 0212.

Good luck to local mums Janine Canham and Alison Cooke who are taking part in next month’s Gobi March. During the 250km race across the Gobi desert, walkers must carry all their own food, clothes, sleeping bag and medical supplies in backpacks that weigh about 10kg each. It’s one of the toughest endurance races in the world. Canham and Cooke will be raising money for charity, including the Naylor Education Trust, established to support the family of local resident Andy Naylor, who died while competing in the New York Ironman in 2012.

Cow hit and run A pregnant cow was killed on Tai Mong Tsai Road last month in a hit-and-run incident. According to reports, a speeding motorist hit the cow, stopped briefly after the impact then drove off towards the country park, leaving the injured

animal on the road. In response, local group Sai Kung Buffalo Watch is organising a protest against speeding in the area. For details and updates on the protest, visit www.saikungbuffalowatch.hk or check out its Facebook page.

Hash goes on on Sai Kung Hash celebrates its 80th run this year. Established by Guy Shirra (aka Gunpowder Plod) in February, 2007, the landmark hash takes place on June 22 and will follow the timehonoured traditions. Runners follow a trail of flour and chalk laid by a “hare” through Sai Kung’s loveliest areas, with various false trails and many cries of “on on” to keep slower runners on track. Afterwards

hashers catch their breath over drinks (down downs) and a convivial meal. Sai Kung Hash is notable as a family- and dog-friendly group. Shirra says the focus is on the running (or jogging or walking) and not the drinking. It welcomes new members of all abilities and sizes on its non-competitive runs. Sign up by contacting Guy Shirra on 9307 2041, guyshirra@gmail.com.

Cariad Apparel

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5/29/13 11:22 AM

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Three-night stay in the luxurious Baan Ling Noi Villa, Koh Samui Valued at $10,000.

Sailing Course at Hebe Haven Yacht Club Valued at $10,000.

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More info: For further information, email our Marketing Department at marketing@fastmedia. com.hk or call 2776 2772. Organic food package from South Stream Seafoods Valued at $3,500.

Sponsors

Melo Vitality Spa Package at Hyatt Regency, Sha Tin Valued at $3,500.

Dinner for four at Hebe One O One Valued at $2,200.

Gift voucher from Sabai Day Spa Sai Kung Valued at $1,000.

Sai Kung Magazine

news

Caoilinn Powell, Coco Lam and Aoife O’Connor.

Sai Kung dancers win world titles Congratulations to Sai Kung’s world-beating Irish dancers. Representing Hong Kong, children and adults from the Echoes of Erin School of Irish Dance won two world and seven European championship titles, seven premiership prizes and more than 75 medals at the World Irish Dancing Association World and European Championships and Germany Feis in Dusseldorf in April. The dance school (www.echoesirishdance.com) runs classes in Sai Kung, Central and Cyberport. For details of its summerSouthsideandSaiKung20MAY2013v4.pdf classes, see p.20.

A taste of America

Say hola to Casa

For all those Americans longing for Reese’s Pieces, Wright’s Liquid Smoke, giant jars of peanut butter and other tastes of home comes new grocery store Q Club. Selling mostly American ranges, the two-storey shop is on Hiram’s Highway, in Sun On Village at the bottom of Po Lo Che Road. As well as candies, snacks and other foods, there’s a small range of hardware and cleaning products. If you’re looking for a special ingredient, Q Club can try to help you source it. With a new shipment every two months, special orders aren’t guaranteed but still welcome. Open daily 10am-10pm, tel: 2791 0822.

A new tapas bar is due to open next month near the Sai Kung waterfront. Run by the people behind Winerack, the popular online wine retailer, Casa will stock wines and boutique beers at affordable prices. The food will be classic Spanish tapas, with plenty of vegetarian and healthy options. Renovations are already underway at the site, near Sai Kung Bakery and Sha Tsui Playground. Keep an eye on developments at Shop 1&2, Siu Yat Building, Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung.

What mama never told you Hong Kong writer Queenie Tan has released a new parenting book titled Cool stuff your parents never told you about parenting, available at Dymocks Sai Kung. “I hope that my new parenting book will shed light on the need for parents to reflect on and improve their parenting skills so that parents can derive joy in working with their children and find fulfillment in their journey as parents,” says Tan, who is an expert in early-childhood education. We have five copies to give away. For details, please visit 1

20/5/13 3:44 PM www.saikung.com.

Inside the Ivy League

A panel discussion with current students and alumni Go beyond the brochure to get the full picture of life at your dream university Hear from current students and alumni from top universities to get their unique perspectives Get insight into the college experience that you can't ﬁnd anywhere else Where:

CUHK Graduate Law Centre, Theatre 3 2/F, Bank of America Tower, Central

When:

Saturday, June 22 • 2pm

Seminar is free but space is limited Call today to reserve seating!

www.theedge.com.hk • 2972 2555

If you’re unable to attend this seminar, we will happily arrange a private consultation for you to discuss your family’s educational goals with one of our admissions consultants. 12 | WWW.SAIKUNG.COM

five minutes with...

Herbal dancer Chinese medicine practitioner Chen Wai-min is a woman of many talents, Lea Metcalfe discovers. My name is Chen Wai-min but I also go by “Leng Loi”. My family are among the original fisherfolk of Sai Kung. I was born in Sha Kok Mei 64 years ago and I have lived in Sai Kung my whole life.

I own a “medical cafe” in the old town. It’s not the oldest medical shop but I’m surely one of the longest-serving business owners in Sai Kung. I’m a traditional Chinese “doctor”, practicing herbal remedies and acupuncture. I’m the woman to see for body pains, massage, diet therapy and so on. I combine old Chinese medical practice with new treatments. I believe good health should be natural and not from pills and drugs. The best medicine comes from the ground. Old Chinese traditions are fading away. More and more locals prefer Western medicine and because of this a lot of Chinese medicine cafes are closing. I want to keep my culture alive. From locals to big-city folk, people come a long way just to try my herbal medicine, teas and turtle jellies.

Chen Wai-min

I started practicing Chinese medicine with my brother about 30 years ago because of poor health – I was very unhealthy and weak for my

People travel a long way for Chen’s turtle jellies.

age. Then I thought, why should I only help myself? So I started my business. I have had my shop for more than 28 years, right beside the temple opposite Revolution Gallery Cafe – my store is the one with boards and hanging turtle shells. Not to brag but I’m probably the best dancer in Sai Kung. I bet I could show you a thing or two. I have been dancing for more than 30 years – the foxtrot, tango, ballroom. I can still do the splits!

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local

stormy waters

Senior Consultant Editor Jane Steer jane@fastmedia.com.hk Deputy Editor Hannah Grogan hannah@fastmedia.com.hk Art Director Sammy Ko sammy@fastmedia.com.hk Graphic Designer Carly Tonna carly@fastmedia.com.hk Sales Manager Nobel Cho nobel@fastmedia.com.hk Sales Executive Jackie Wilson jackie@fastmedia.com.hk Digital Media Assistant Sharon Wong sharon@fastmedia.com.hk Classifieds Prudence Chik prudence@fastmedia.com.hk Accounts Manager Connie Lam connie@fastmedia.com.hk Publisher Tom Hilditch tom@fastmedia.com.hk This month’s contributors Carolynne Dear Pete Spurrier Stephen Vines Tim Sharpe David Diskin Sally Andersen Laura Ma Lea Metcalfe Printer Gear Printing Room 3B, 49 Wong Chuk Hang Road, (Derrick Industrial Building), Wong Chuk Hang Published by Fast Media Limited LG1, 222 Queens Road Central Hong Kong Give us a call! Editorial: 2776 2773 Advertising: 2776 2772 Sai Kung Magazine is published by Fast Media Ltd. This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Fast Media Ltd cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. The views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or publishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any way, part or format without written permission from the publisher.

www.fastmedia.com.hk

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An artist’s impresssion of the proposed public marine centre in Tolo Harbour.

Trouble at sea What does the Marine Department crackdown on moorings mean for Sai Kung’s boat owners? By Hannah Grogan. The typhoon season may be the least of boat owners’ concerns this year, with worries that recent Marine Department crackdowns on moorings in Aberdeen Harbour may affect Sai Kung waters. Since early March, owners of oversized boats in Aberdeen – most of which had sublet 19-foot moorings in the harbour – have been given just two weeks to move under threat of having their vessels seized and moorings reallocated. But with nowhere else to go, many boats are staying put and their owners petitioning the government to provide more safe moorings. The move has highlighted Hong Kong’s chronic shortage of licensed moorings for registered boats. According to a new marine-industry group, Pleasure Boating Alliance, which is leading the petition, there is a whopping shortfall of 8,000 moorings across the territory (see box). The Marine Department is also checking moorings in Sai Kung, with local yacht clubs reporting they have been approached for licensing information. A story on local Chineselanguage website Sina.com.hk may have prompted the crackdown. According to the report, boats in

Aberdeen were being sublet as liveaboards for up to $60,000 a month – renting a pleasure vessel for accommodation is illegal in Hong Kong. “Following the article, the Marine Department contacted all the yacht clubs asking for information from the clubs and their current practise,” says Roger Eastham, marine services manager at the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club and Sai Kung resident of 32 years. “We just need to make sure all boats within Shelter Cove are in compliance with Marine Department regulations.” Meanwhile, pressure is mounting on the government to provide additional safe moorings. As a Southern District Councillor and CEO of Designing Hong Kong, Paul Zimmerman has been closely involved with the situation in Aberdeen Harbour and with proposals for new moorings in Aberdeen and Tolo Harbour. “Over 50 per cent of the fleet of local registered boats are now pleasure vessels,” he says. “This can grow, creating jobs and opportunities for the community, if we make affordable moorings and safe boarding facilities available throughout Hong Kong. Currently,

Where are all the boats? 7,920 registered pleasure vessels 4,103 transportation vessels, fishing boats and sampans 2,280 moorings in private marinas 950 private moorings 800 dry berths (estimated) unless you are very rich or willing to climb over railings, boating is inaccessible.” In February, Designing Hong Kong lodged an application with the Town Planning Board for a new public marine centre in Tolo Harbour. The proposal calls for affordable dry-stack storage for 200 boats and a floating pontoon system for 400 boats at Pak Shek Kok, near the Hong Kong Science and Technology Park. Designing Hong Kong is urging the public to press the government for more moorings, making it more affordable to own a boat, and keep it safe. Join the campaign at www.moorings.hk.

local

thumbs up

Sai Kung on Facebook

about child-oriented local businesses, activities, tutoring and summer camps. Members include Jumpstart, RugBees, Monster Tennis, RedWizard, Echoes of Erin Irish Dancing and Bricks4Kidz.

Pages we like.

Sai Kung Marketplace If you have household items to sell – or are looking for secondhand items to buy – this is the place. Everything from sofas to soda machines pops up on this fastmoving page. If you see something you like, get in quick.

Sai Kung Magazine

Our very own Facebook page, keeping you up to date with the latest news and events around town. Keep an eye out for local information, interviews, activities, special offers and more. Bayside Villagers A great source of information about Clearwater Bay, with posts about issues, events, secondhand goods for sale and even heads-up notifications about roadworks Sai Kung Mummies A forum for local mothers to share advice and information, advertise products and services, sell child-

related items, and anything else with a family focus. SaiKungSquare A group for local businesses and organisations to offer real-time promotions and information to Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay

residents. Members currently include Steamers, Anthony’s Ranch, Piccolo, Tala’s, Swiss Art School, Anastassia’s Art House, and more. SaiKungKids A good source of information

Sai Kung Helpers A closed Facebook group where members can share information relating to employing a domestic helper locally. Sai Kung Real Estate For those looking to buy, sell or rent a home in Sai Kung or Clearwater Bay, this new group is a good place to start.

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vines in sai kung

stephen says...

Sai Kung: Our Home Dumb campaigns, smart animals, and Stephen Vines gets hoaxed. Cleaner for a day It was, of course, really fabulous to have education secretary Eddie Ng sweep into Sai Kung to do his bit for the “Hong Kong: Our Home” programme. Honestly, who knew Hong Kong was our home? And, oh my, didn’t he look great donning a smart pair of rubber gloves to do a rapid spot of cleaning in front of the cameras to spread the message of public hygiene? The gloves quickly came off and Ng moved on to fry bigger fish – or, in his case, maybe smaller fish because every time he gets involved in a big issue he seems to get into trouble. But that’s for another day. Meanwhile, what are these idiots in government thinking? Let us consider the central absurdity of the “Hong Kong: Our Home” campaign, which is designed to foster a sense of unity and community involvement by a government that doesn’t trust its own people to choose their own government. It is all a bit of a nonsense, but even if it were not, who on earth is going to be influenced by the ridiculous spectacle of someone like Ng grinning sheepishly into the cameras and pretending to be a street cleaner for a few minutes? These are the tactics of a government that is not only running out of ideas but also prefers to stage stunts rather than make a serious attempt to harvest the collective wisdom of the community in order to improve things. Dumb humans, smart sharks It’s that time of the year when shark-spotting in Sai Kung waters makes for good newspaper copy and adds a thrill to the mundane business

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of swimming. Apparently we have a dangerous shark, or sharks, off our shores this year and we can all be appropriately alarmed. It brings to mind a wonderfully stupid stunt launched by the former Hongkong Standard newspaper in 1995 as part of an array of, er, clever ideas to fight off newly launched rival Eastern Express, which I was then editing.

There is a stronger sense of community in these parts and neighbours tend to look out for each other. The stunt involved calling in a well-known Australian shark catcher to eliminate an allegedly dangerous beast in Sai Kung waters. He portrayed this as a contest between an intelligent human and a dumb animal. As it turned out, this was not such a great idea as the dumb animal evaded the increasingly desperate shark catcher. Reports in the paper dwindled as there was little to report other than the dumb shark catcher talking about his exploits. I must admit to more than one slightly vindictive chuckle at the time. You’re nicked Less funny has been the spate of burglaries in the Sai Kung area. It is surprising this area has not suffered more burglaries. It is a prosperous part of Hong Kong, much of the housing is relatively isolated and the easy-going lifestyle

may lead to easy-going security precautions. But I think there are a couple of reasons why the burglary situation is not worse. First, a high proportion of Sai Kung households have dogs, and most burglars make it a point to avoid homes with dogs. Second, and I hope I am right about this, there is a stronger sense of community in these parts and neighbours tend to look out for each other. This is certainly true in the small area where I live. None of this suggests cause for complacency but… A hoax and an apology Finally, I’ve got to put up my hands to being hoaxed in the last edition of this column. My miserable excuse is that it was a very clever April Fool’s Day hoax (note to self: check dates more thoroughly next time) involving a smartly produced phony announcement from the local district office about signature projects for Sai Kung under the government scheme of that name. The thing is I am always too ready to believe in the stupidity of bureaucracy, so when I see a list of daft government plans I tend to believe it. So humble apologies are in order to the Sai Kung District Office, which, it turns out, has submitted some quite sensible projects for funding under the scheme. Sorry folks. Stephen Vines is a journalist, broadcaster and entrepreneur. He is the former editor of the Eastern Express and Southeast Asia correspondent for The Observer.

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feature

Camps for kids Big fun for little people. By Carolynne Dear.

Be a sport Multi-activity camps With sports, watersports and creative classes, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plenty to keep the kids occupied at the Country Club at Hong Lok Yuen. Think tennis, snorkelling, taekwondo, Chinese painting and more. The club also offers day trips to a heritage trail, the wetland park or organic farm. Nonmembers welcome. Details at 2657 8899, enquiries@cchly.com, www.hlycc.com. Sports camps Get the kids running, jumping, swimming and flinging themselves and all sorts of equipment about (safely) at these general sports camps for kids aged three-four, five-six and seven-10. Run by ESF Educational Services, the five-day camps run three hours a day and build skills while having a blast. Held in ESF facilities across Hong Kong, including Renaissance College, from July 2 to August 16. Details at 2711 1280, sports@esf. org.hk, www.esf. org.hk.

Mini Messis learn to tackle at Asia Pacific Soccer School.

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Soccer Jumpers for goalposts? Not likely. Asia Pacific Soccer School will be putting mini Messis through their paces in locations across Hong Kong, including Sai Kung, the Australian International School in

Kowloon Tong and Kowloon Cricket Club. Kinder Kicks (for children aged two to four years) will also run at most venues, as well as Hang Hau and Clearwater Bay. Details at 2385 9677, admin@apsoccer.hk, www.apsoccer.hk. Tennis Monster Tennis will be holding classes at Sai Kung public tennis courts and indoor sessions in Sai Kung Town Hall (9048 2810, www. monstertennis.hk). The Country Club at Hong Lok Yuen is offering tennis with other activities such as craft and swimming in summer camps open to all (2657 8899, enquiries@ cchly.com, www.hlycc.com). And the YWCA is offering lessons for all levels at the Hong Kong Tennis Centre on Wong Nai Chung Gap Road (esmd@ywca.org.hk). Cricket Nothing says summer like the thwack of leather on willow. The Imran Cricket Academy will have them knocking balls for six in a course that develops cricket skills, match tactics, physical stamina and engages in friendly and competitive matches. For children aged four to 12 years. Details at 2575 3400, manlee@ imranacademy.com, www.imranacademy.com.

summer activities

Catching a wave at Treasure Island.

Golf Got a Tiger on your hands? Unleash the beast at a Junior Golf Camp. With classes for all ages and abilities from three to 18 years, beginners practice their swings at the Olympian City driving range in Tai Kok Tsui, while more experienced players can tee-off at the Nine Eagles Golf Course on Lantau. Details at 2271 4953, enquiry@juniorgolf.com.hk, www.juniorgolf.com.hk. Horse riding “Own” a pony for a week at Clearwater Bay Equestrian Centre. Full- and half-day camps are available for riders aged six and up and include pony care as well as riding instruction. Details at 6398 6241, info@ceec.hk, www.ceec.hk.

Get wet Sailing Week-long sailing camps at Hebe Haven Yacht Club offer courses at all levels and on various types of dinghies. Its popular Adventure Multi-activity Weeks for kids aged seven to 12 mix sailing lessons with everything from raft racing to beach olympics. Expect them home tired, soggy and rosycheeked. Non-members welcome. Details at 2719 0926, sailadmin@ hhyc.org.hk, www.hhyc.org.hk. Wet ’n’ Wild Try dragon boating, stand-up paddling, kayaking, wakeboarding and snorkelling at Blue Sky’s five-

day Wet ’n’ Wild Camp in Sai Kung in July and August. Instructors will get little grey cells ticking over with some marine science-based know-how. And check out the water-based weekend tours in Sai Kung or Yim Tin Tsai by transparent kayak or stand-up paddle board. Available June to September. Details at 2791 0806, info@blueskysc.com, www.bluesky-sc.com. Surfing Learn to hang ten at Treasure Island’s weekly surf camps. Mini Keanus from age five can catch a wave on beautiful Pui O beach, Lantau. There’s an intermediate camp for the over-nines with surfing experience. An adventure camp for older kids includes mountain-biking, kayaking, gorging, coasteering and surfing. Pick up and drop off at Central Ferry Pier, with lunch included. Details at 2546 3543, inquiries@ treasureislandhk.com, www.treasureislandhk.com. Summer camps Children can hit the waves on a skim-board, stand-up paddleboard or regular surfboard at Palm Beach in Cheung Sha, Lantau. Add landbased games and a bonfire into the mix, and you’ve got a pretty cool summer going on. The three-day camps run all summer, held daily from 9.30am to 5pm. Pick-up and drop-off at Tung Chung MTR. Details at 2980 4822, info@palmbeach.com.hk, www.palmbeach.com.hk.

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summer camps

Irish dancers strike a pose.

Gotta dance Ballet Hone your ballet skills with a 13-day intensive course at the Russian Ballet School, Sai Kung. Budding ballerinas aged over 10 will have four hours of instruction a day in courses such as classic ballet, repertoire, contemporary or partnering classes (pas des deux). Details at 9505 9305, rbssaikung@gmail.com.

Street dancing Bust some moves at Red Shoe Dance School’s first Street Dance Camp. The week-long programme covers all aspects of the street genre at the school’s Arbuthnot Road studio in Central. Camps in ballet, jazz, lyrical and musical theatre are also available at its Wong Chuk Hang studio. Details at 2117 9216, redshoedance@gmail. com, www.redshoedance.com.

Irish dancing Echoes of Erin School of Irish Dancing Hong Kong is running weekly classes during July and August in Sai Kung, Central and Cyberport. All ages and abilities welcome. Details at 9093 2015, info@echoesirishdance.com, www.echoesirishdance.com.

11 years will have them dabbling in sewing, clay, beading, paper crafts and decorative painting. The two- to three-day camps run for 90 minutes each day at Babushka in the old town and include all materials, the finished craft, a snack and a drink. Details at 6757 2564, crafthourasia@gmail. com, www.crafthourasia.com.

Get creative

Bricks 4 Kidz Unleash mini engineers with a fiveday Lego summer camp at Bricks 4 Kidz in Sai Kung town. The threehour sessions explore different themes, such as movie making, robotics and outer space. The camps are available to children aged three to 13-plus. Details at 2791 0007, info@bricks4kidz.hk, www.bricks4kidz.hk.

Anastassia’s Art House Anastassia’s is exploring the world through art, from Tibetan portrait painting to Venetian mask-making. Children learn to use a variety of materials, referencing some of the most interesting places on the planet. Available in July and August for children aged three to 16 at venues throughout Hong Kong including Sai Kung. Details at 2719 5533, arthouse.hk@gmail.com, www.arthouse-hk.com. Craft Hour New to Sai Kung, Craft Hour camps for kids aged six to

Children learn to use a variety of materials, referencing some of the most interesting places in the world.

ESF Summer Sports Camp

Discovery College

Island School

Renaissance College

West Island School

Keep your child’s holiday active with an ESF Summer Sports Camp. Children aged 3-13 can participate in a variety of sports with professional guidance and a whole lot of fun! Camp sessions will focus on basic movement skills and encourage children to explore and be challenged both individually and as a team in a structured, interactive and friendly environment. Our ESL coaches look forward to welcoming your child to Summer Sports Camp!

Enrol Online

Weekly camps run 2 July 16 August

Tel

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2711 1280

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summer camps Hong Kong Art Tutoring Experiment with printmaking, sketching, sculpture, mixed media and painting at 90-minute, fiveday programmes from mid-June through August at this North Point studio. Details at 9722 8353, info@hkarttutoring.com, www.hkarttutoring.com.

Panda Pottery Held every Monday throughout July (3pm-4pm), this Sai Kung-based pottery class gives the over-fives a chance to paint their own plate, mug, bowl and trinket box, working to a different theme each week. Details at 6439 2387, info@pandapottery. com, www.pandapottery.com. YWCA Pinnies on for Kids Can Cook at the YWCA and expect all sorts of culinary delights for tea. Other creative classes also available. Details at 3476 1340, esmd@ywca.org.hk, www.esmdywca.org.hk.

Arty at YWCA.

RockABaby Eight weeks of creative music workshops in Sheung Wan, including dancing, singing, acting and rapping with a real band. Weekly themes include Wild Wild West, Fantasy Island and Broadway. Open to children aged five to 10. Details at 3586 3070/71, info@rockababy.com.hk, www.rockababy.com.hk.

Faust International Book your drama queens and kings into a summer theatre or creative-writing programme. Week-long workshops for children aged four to 14 cover performance skills such as improvisation and movement, while younger kids can take the stage at Tots Theatre. The creativewriting programme is for children aged six-13. Workshops are held in Sheung Wan and Kowloon Tong. Details at 2546 9114, info@faustworld.com, Crafty at RockABaby. www.faustworld.com.

Goodnight campers Surf Hong Kong Older kids will love Surf Hong Kongâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s overnight camps. Sleeping in 10-man tents on Sai Kungâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stunning Tai Long Wan beach, children can check out the night-time phosphorescence and wake up to the cleanest surf in Hong Kong. Qualified instructors take them surfing, kayaking and snorkelling in the nearby marine park. Three- and five-day camps are available for children aged eight-12 and 13-17. Details at 9091 3731, info@surfhongkong.com, www.surfhongkong.com. Outward Bound Outward Bound Hong Kong programmes offer a wide range of activities for older kids, with a host of activities including kayaking, camping and hiking. The courses run for five or eight days, with accommodation at its Sai Kung base. Details at 2791 3228, info@ outwardbound.org.hk, www.outwardbound.org.hk.

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summer camps

For the smalls Woodland Preschools Keep little hands busy with morning, afternoon or all-day sessions that can be booked in two-week blocks throughout July and August at Woodland Sai Kung. Weekly themes are explored through painting, clay modelling, cooking, dancing, science experiments, storytelling and dress-up days. For children aged one to seven years (including non-Woodland students). Details at 2559 4855, enquiry@woodlandschools.com, www.woodlandschools.com. Jumpstart Mandarin Learning Centre Get a head start on Mandarin with summer lessons at this Sai Kung centre. The one- or two-hour classes take the “work” out of “workshop” by using fun media such as songs, stories, craft and drama. For children aged two to eight. Details at 2791 4838, jumpstart@netvigator.com, www.jumpstartmlc.com.

Water play at Leapfrog. Jumpstart Mandarin Learning Centre.

SKIP SKIP’s popular paintand-play summer sessions explore minibeast, sea and junglethemed activities and adventures. Suitable for children aged one to five, accompanied by an adult. Book early. Details at 2791 7354, skip@skip.edu.hk, www.skip.edu.hk.

Keep little hands busy with morning, afternoon or all-day sessions.

Leapfrog Kindergarten Cool down at Leapfrog’s waterbased summer playgroup in Sai Kung Country Park. It’s mostly about getting wet, but there will be a chance to dry out during circle time, with songs, stories, games and oodles of art and craft. Held every morning for water babies aged one to six years (accompanied by an adult). Details at 2791 1540, www.leapfrogkindergarten.org.

Sylvan Learning Centre Calling all wordsmiths, Sylvan Learning Centre is running an afternoon Summer Writing Workshop focusing on a different topic every week. Skills include mind mapping, planning, drafting, editing, revising and publishing. Not forgetting punctuation, spelling, vocabulary and grammar, of course. Details at 2873 0662, info@sylvan.edu.hk.

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Sai Kung Campus opens August 2013. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis for PK1 – Grade 12. For more details or to book into one of our upcoming Information Sessions, please call 2655-1112. www.hkacademy.edu.hk

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family

where’s the party?

Taking it easy-peasy A new online service takes the stress out of children’s parties, writes Carolynne Dear. Is there anything more time consuming than planning a children’s birthday party? Step forward Hong Kong mum Christine Smith and her new online children’s party-planning service, Eezy Peezy Parties (www.eezypeezyparties.com). It’s a complete solution for frazzled mothers. The service delivers e-vites, manages the replies, oversees the gift list, delivers presents wrapped and labelled to the party, supplies party decorations and tableware, and even sends thank-you e-cards. The only thing she doesn’t do is fill the goodie bags (“Although I could if you needed that service,” she adds good-naturedly). She and her team have spent the past 18 months scouring trade fairs and the internet for top party goodies and she believes she now has the widest selection in Hong Kong.

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She has also created a list of entertainers, cake makers, venues, equipment suppliers (think bouncy castles) and interior designers to ensure your child’s party is perfect. She has plans to move into adult parties soon (“Baby showers, hen parties, 21sts, 40ths and so forth,” she clarifies quickly). Throughout the year, Smith will be adding to her Aladdin’s cave on Ap Lei Chau, with themed party gear for Halloween, Christmas, New Year’s Eve and other holidays. If you don’t need the full package, you can shop online or select elements of the service. If Uncle George is wearing his clown suit to young Brian’s fifth birthday, or little Tabitha insists on a homemade cake, skip these sections of the website and let Smith take the strain in other areas.

Get shirty Help dads get with the programme this Father’s Day with cool new t-shirts from independent local label Momantai (Cantonese for “no problem”). Designed and hand-printed by French expat Elody Vincent, the on-trend shirts are made from soft, brushed cotton. Get them online at www.momantai. com.hk or at Babushka, Shop 12, 66 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2791 9070.

promotion

We learn, we build, we play... Explore Hong Kong’s first Bricks 4 Kidz location in Sai Kung town this summer.

Children are invited to design and construct machines, buildings and other models out of the popular coloured bricks. The centre offers various after-school classes and activities, summer camps and birthday parties. All are available to children aged three to 13-plus. While the concept of playing with LEGO® toys may sound simple, the courses have been praised for their educational, developmental and social benefits. Young children not only begin to hone their fine motor skills, but the courses also help to develop valuable social and communication skills through a focus on teamwork and collaboration in completing a project. Bricks 4 Kidz courses make kids excited about learning. Children are more likely to retain information delivered in the context of something that interests them, and what’s more interesting to a six-year-old than LEGO®?

So if you’re stuck for something to do these school holidays, try a Bricks 4 Kidz summer camp. The five-day camps are available as morning or afternoon sessions and run throughout July and August. They cover not only the various themed creative designs and machines from the programme, but also offer LEGO® robotics and even stop-motion animation. Not only is it a fantastic way to get the kids out of the house, but it’s also a great way for them to socialise. Classes and camps are available for children aged three to 13-plus.

To enrol in an after-school programme or summer camp, call 2791 0007 or visit www.bricks4kidz.hk. 1/F, 65 Man Nin Street, Sai Kung.

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Disclaimer: LEGO® is a registered trademark of the LEGO Company which is not affiliated with these programmes.

It can be trying to think of new ways to entertain the kids, especially when the rainy weather sets in. Sometimes it can feel like there aren’t many indoor places to take your children, which is why the opening of Bricks 4 Kidz’ first centre in Hong Kong, right in the heart of Sai Kung, set parents buzzing with delight. For those who are unfamiliar with the programme, Bricks 4 Kidz is an internationally recognised method of learning. It’s one of the newest crazes to arrive on our doorstep and offers a hands-on approach to learning through the use of LEGO®. Bricks 4 Kidz has a simple philosophy: We learn, we build, we play… with LEGO® bricks. As a creative learning centre, Bricks 4 Kidz provides an unusual learning experience for preschool and primary-school students.

eating New olde worlde Sai Kung’s new dining venue offers Chinese food with a twist – and a nice cup of tea, writes Hannah Grogan. Contemporary in style but refreshingly old-school in attitude, the Olde Hong Kong Tea Cafe brings something special to Sai Kung. The new addition to the local dining scene opened in April, kitty-corner to Steamers on the edge of the public basketball court. Established by a group of creative and movie-industry types, the restaurant is all about Chinese dining and appreciating tea. It offers lunch sets, afternoon tea and multi-course fine-dining in the evening.

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There’s also a menu of specialist Chinese teas, including unusual blends such as pu-erh and mangosteen, cinnamon and camomile and ginseng oolong. We dropped by for the lunch set, which comprises a handful of dishes at $100, along with your choice of floral tea at half price. I opt for a Hong Kong favourite, uncut barbecue pork on rice, and a Singapore speciality, stewed nyonya curry rib finger with rice. With meat so tender it melts in your mouth and flavour so rich you can smell it the instant it leaves the kitchen, the dishes made a good first impression. Each dish was accompanied with a garnish of cucumber and garlic salad, which had a cool, refreshing effect on a wiltingly hot day. But this is not curry in a hurry. If you’re in the market for fast food, keep walking until you reach McDonald’s; instead, OHK invites customers to enjoy the art of slow dining. There is no rushing, only the simplicity of sitting in a

Pictures: Hannah Grogan

review

each course. Recommended dishes include sauteed razor fish and asparagus in black truffle, pomelo and roast duck salad, and traditionalstyle baked oysters in custard. While the space is small, like most restaurants in Sai Kung, it has been carefully thought out. A feature library wall adds colour to an otherwise monochrome black, white Olde Hong Kong Tea Cafe offers Asian fine dining and speciality teas. and grey colour palette. And in keeping with the theme, the decor blends traditionally ornate Asian comfortable space with a handcrafted tea while design with sleek contemporary lines. you enjoy your meal. Owner and executive director Paul Wong In the evenings, while walk-ins are welcome, emphasises the importance of maintaining it works almost like a fine-dining private kitchen quality of food and service on a daily basis, and and booking is recommended. Diners can of connecting with the Sai Kung community. He choose between an eight-course meal ($558 hopes to use the venue as an art space, exhibiting per person) or a tastebud-testing 11 courses works by local artists and students. ($680 per person), with a choice of dishes for

High tea Afternoon tea is served from 3pm along with traditional Chinese savouries and desserts. $168 per person for a full set and floral tea. Tea recommendations Green tea with lemongrass and apple flower ($75) Jasmine hearts ($85) Stars: Price: lunch $150-$200 per person; dinner $600-$800. Open Tue-Sun, noon-11pm (closed Mondays). 51 Yi Chun Street, Sai Kung, 2792 3890.

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sponsored column

Need to know ITS School Placements offers tips on how to find the right school. For a broader view on the school search, here are a few things you need to know. 1. Just because a preschool calls itself “international”, doesn’t necessarily mean it is. Visit the preschool to understand more about its curriculum. Observe the teachers and students and consider the fluency of English and the nationalities of the students and staff. 2. Don’t choose an international school just because it has a kindergarten section and primary section; you may find the primary section is not the best choice for your child’s primary schooling. 3. If a school offers you three different dates for an interview, book the first date as soon as you can. That way your child is more likely to be in the first group of interviewees and may be offered a spot before the children in the other two groups.

Inspiring

4. Even if your child has a priority for admission this does not guarantee placement. Normally priorities will help bump up your child’s position on a waiting list or offer you an earlier chance for an admission assessment, however some schools may still offer a place to students without admission priority if this child excelled in the assessment. 5. Although a school with a double-streamed curriculum may base its international section primarily on the English curriculum (as a result of a commitment to the school’s national language), there is an acknowledged “gap” between the two curricula, particularly in areas such as science and history.

Even if your child has a priority for admission this does not guarantee placement. 6. In some schools, only parents fluent in the school’s national language can be proposed for a place on the board – this may not seem a big issue, but parents may find they have precious little influence in schools where the international stream is under-represented at board level. ITS School Placements provides an education consulting service that works with families and employers to find the right schools for individual children in Hong Kong, from nursery to secondary schools. ITS also offers research, policy and advisory services for corporations. For more details, contact es@tuition.com.hk or 3188 3940.

Kellett School, The British International School in Hong Kong, is an English National Curriculum School. Kellett School is currently accepting applications for Pok Fu Lam Prep and Kowloon Bay Prep and Senior, including the new A Level Programme. For applications and further information visit www.kellettschool.com or email admissions@kellettschool.com

Ian Ridgway Kellett PE Teacher HK International Rugby Player

Scan to watch Ian tell his story

a love of learning and confidence for life WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 39

outdoors

Trainer Sammy Hun (front row) with the ladies of Blazing Paddles – and a few next-generation paddlers.

Blazing Paddles Dragon-boat paddler Siabhan Duguid has the lowdown on Sai Kung’s upstart women’s team. Sai Kung women’s dragon-boat team Blazing Paddles caused quite a ripple last summer when we burst onto the water manned mainly by mums in brightly coloured kit. Under the tutelage of Hong Kong national team coach Sammy Hun, we’re back and looking for silverware at this year’s Tuen Ng Festival races in Sai Kung on June 12. Fitness levels may vary, but it doesn’t matter how strong you are; if you don’t paddle as a team, your boat will go nowhere fast. This year’s Blazing Paddles sees some talented

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newcomers who, lured by the prospect of Saturday mornings on the water, signed up, turned up – and by Sunday morning had seized up. Undeterred, training sessions continued and those muscle groups began to respond. A 90-second, 260-stroke race doesn’t sound like a heap of time to implement a strategy, but there’s no chance of silverware without one. Week by week, it gets busier on the water as the big day approaches. We engage in sprints against other teams and even

lone kayakers – anything to get race ready. When passion meets power in a synchronised team, you feel it in the boat and in your guts. And it’s magic. Sponsored by Sai Kung success story Paisano’s, the team should be easy to spot at the waterfront on dragon-boat day – just follow the pizza. (Al, you are a legend! Thank you for your support: if the sore muscles from training are any indication, we plan to make you proud.)

yat yee, yat yee...

Your guide to the dragon-boat festival What is it? Known in Mandarin as Duanwu and in Cantonese as Tuen Ng, one legend has it that the dragon-boat festival originated in ancient China with the death of revered poet Qu Yuan on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month in 278 BCE. The poet is said to have drowned himself in the Miluo River in protest at a corrupt government during the Warring States period. Grieving locals paddled boats onto the river where they splashed noisily and dropped

triangles of sticky rice to keep fish away from his body. The festival has been held on the “double fifth” ever since. What to expect Rowing to the beat of a loud drummer, teams of eight to 18 paddlers (Blazing Paddles will have a team of 10) race teak boats with dragon heads over a 500-metre course, competing for glory and a barbecued suckling pig. It’s noisy, crowded and cheerful, with a fun after-party. Where to watch On June 12, bleacher-style seating on Sai Kung waterfront promenade fills up early for the races, which run from 8am to 1.30pm, near the public pier. Further from home, there are big events at Stanley Main Beach, 8am-6pm, and off Aberdeen waterfront promenade (8.40am4pm with prize presentation at 3.15pm). On June 21-23, the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races take place off the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront in Victoria Harbour.

What to bring Participants need shorts, team shirts, gloves, sea shoes – paddles and seats cushion are provided (numb bums are a dragon-boat hazard). Don’t forget the sunblock.

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health & beauty

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Beyond the pale

We know every day is different. And we love that. But also know that everyday counts. So we’ve built a weight-loss plan that gives you the smarts and strength to take on every day! We teach people to lose weight for good and become Everyday Strong.

Lea Metcalfe’s adventures in spray tanning.

MEETING LOCATIONS Sai Kung/Clearwater Bay Wednesdays 6pm – 7pm The Bay Practice 1/F Razor Hill Dairy Farm Shopping Centre Clearwater Bay Road Be sure to visit www.weightwatchers.com.hk to confirm our Summer schedule!

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10/05/13

First time getting a spray tan, you tend to feel skeptical. I know I did. Would it be permanent? Would I look good or like a cast member from Jersey Shore? I’m not one to flaunt around nude in front of a total stranger, but with the incessant rain and haze making a natural tan unlikely for a while, I thought I’d give it a go. But it was with some trepidation that I made an appointment for Tala’s new Vani-T spray-tan service, using an Australian product rich in organic ingredients. The receptionist gave me a few instructions over the phone before heading down. First – and this is important – the spray tan is likely to stain clothes and bedsheets on day one, so wear 4:49 something PM black, loose and preferably old. Next, scrub your body the day before. And finally, after tanning avoid exercise, the shower and all body products. It’s time to go au naturel. In the spray room, the beauty therapist gave me a choice of colours: Velocity (the darkest), Fusion (medium-dark), Liquid Sun (honey-coloured) or I could create my own shade. I picked honey. It turns out you don’t have to strip off completely: You can wear your own underwear, disposable panties, or go nude. Then it’s on with a shower cap and into a small black spray tent. The therapist tested the product in the machine on tissue paper, then arranged me in rather awkward positions for an even, all-over tan (face optional). Top tip: Keep your eyes closed and try to ignore the fact there’s a woman spraying you from a hoselike machine. Evenly basted, I dried off by standing naked in front

of a giant fan. The entire process took about 45 minutes. Tala’s owner Mojdeh Kazemi is a spray-tan fan. She has done it all, she says, from baking in the sun to tanning beds, and she swears by spray tans. And, man, does she look good. Moj says Vani-T products are healthy, have no side effects and cause no damage to the skin. The tan lasts seven to 10 days, depending on your beauty regime, and if you are unhappy with the results, Tala’s will be happy to fix it. As for me, I had small spots the first day but by the next day they were all gone. Over the next few days, I received lots of compliments as my tan just got better and better. It looked natural, had no stickiness or odour – and, gosh, was it even. My skin looked ridiculously healthy. Hell, I glowed. I even fancied myself quite a bit – a real Vani-T moment.

faking it

Vani-T spray tans are $600 (with a $200 discount if you return with a week of your first tan). Tala’s Hair & Beauty, 56 Po Tung Road, Sai Kung, 2335 1694, www.talashair.com. Best beauty treatment in Sai Kung? Tell us by voting in our Readers’ Choice Awards for a chance to win prizes worth $50,000. Vote now at www.saikung.com

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hikes

Clockwise from left: Kau Sai Chau, a feral cow, a commemorative dolosse and the West Dam.

Dam buster Pete Spurrier takes the shady route to High Island Reservoir. The hills of Sai Kung East Country Park surround the placid turquoise waters of High Island Reservoir. Built in the late 1970s, following severe water shortages in the previous decade, it was created by damming the two ends of a narrow sea channel between High Island and the mainland, submerging half a dozen villages in the process. The MacLehose Trail starts on its southern side, but this threeto four-hour circular walk offers a more shaded route. It involves little climbing, but passes through remote areas, so take water and a map. The route starts at Pak Tam Chung, which can be reached from Sai Kung town by bus 94 or 96R and minibus 7 or 9. Alternatively, early risers may find a parking space at the country park barrier. Browse the displays inside the Country Parks Visitor Centre then follow the road past the barrier for 100 metres or so to the Fat Kee Store (drinks available) and cross the little bridge over a wide tidal stream. It’s signposted as the Sheung Yiu Family Walk. Turn right, following the stream through a jungle of bamboo and pandanus plants.

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A little shrine in front of a banyan tree is dedicated to a local earth god. Soon afterwards, an ancient lime kiln appears beside the stream, quickly followed by a walled village set above the path. This is the fortified Hakka settlement of Sheung Yiu, which is now a folk museum (open Wednesday to Sunday, 9am-4pm, free entry). It was once home to the Wong clan, who burned seashells and coral to produce lime, which they traded up and down the coast. Exhibits in each of the houses show what rural life was like in years gone by, and opposite there’s a jetty and modern pagoda that make a decent picnic spot. Just past the village, turn uphill into the woods and then turn right onto the Sheung Yiu Country Trail. The climb is brief and soon levels out, and through gaps in the trees you are treated to wonderful views of Port Shelter and its many islands. It’s a nice natural trail that crosses several streams where you can cool off in the clear water. Eventually the reservoir’s West Dam comes into sight. The

grassy park and man-made lake below it at sea level once housed the High Island detention camp for Vietnamese boat people. Now, it’s used as the Chong Hing Water Sports Centre and the Hong Kong Space Museum’s Astropark where you can stargaze at night; stars are easier to see when there are no city lights. The trail exits onto Man Yee Road near the top of the dam, where wild cattle wander around. Turn left to walk alongside the reservoir and back to Pak Tam Chung where you started. As an optional detour, hail a green taxi (or call one on 2729 1199) and take it in the opposite direction to the East Dam at the heart of the Geopark. The outer dam was built from thousands of concrete dolosses, giant irregularshaped blocks that absorb the impact of the South China Sea. As well as the dam, you’ll find a sea cave, fault lines and stunning hexagonal rock formations. From the pagoda, you can also follow the MacLehose Trail Stage 2 downhill for 20 minutes to lovely Long Ke Wan beach for a much-deserved swim.

Pete Spurrier is the author of The Leisurely Hiker’s Guide to Hong Kong and The Serious Hiker’s Guide to Hong Kong (FormAsia).

high ho

bird at my window

Pak Tam Chung 1

2 Sheung Yiu

Eurasian magpie aka Pica pica 3

West Dam

Optional detour

This three- to four-hour walk is shady and relatively easy for summer.

One for sorrow, Two for joy… The children’s nursery rhyme about magpie sightings dates back to 16th-century Britain and is just one example of the folklore inspired by this species. In Scotland, a magpie near the window of the house is said to be a harbinger of death. Quite why the magpie should be an omen of ill-fortune is difficult to say. It is perhaps understandable for crows and ravens – close relations of magpies – to be associated with death because of their all-black plumage, but with its black-and-white plumage and bright

blue wings the magpie is a colourful bird. Perhaps its reputation is linked to its putative habit of stealing shining objects or eating songbird nestlings and eggs. However, that reputation does not seem to extend to Asia, where it is the national bird of South Korea. The Eurasian magpie ranges from Western Europe to China, Korea and northeast Russia. It is a widespread resident in Hong Kong and can be found in urban and suburban areas as well as farmland and wetlands. Its nest is a large domed structure made from sticks and twigs usually placed high in a tree or, in urban areas, in electricity pylons and advertising signboards. The average clutch is five to seven eggs that are incubated solely by the female for three weeks, while the male brings her food to the nest. Both sexes feed the chicks and families stay together for several weeks after the young birds leave the nest. David Diskin is a writer and photographer based in the New Territories. His latest book is Hong Kong Nature Walks: Kowloon, Hong Kong & Outlying Islands. Details at www.accipiterpress.com.

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pets Let sleeping dogs lie Should the pooch share your bedroom? Sally Andersen argues the toss.

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I confess to sharing my bed with a collection of dogs, and I find it as comforting as they do. Admittedly, there’s often a fight for space and covers, but having a dog sleeping with you doesn’t affect its behaviour in any way, and the old “alpha” pack leader theory has long been debunked. Allowing a dog to sleep in a bedroom, if not on the bed, can make a big difference to a child who is afraid of the dark or of being alone. Sharing a room with a dog can make a child feel safe and secure; I have been told countless stories of children sleeping happily throughout the night for the first time when there is a dog there to look after them. Picture: Kat Kuok

Do you let your dog sleep with you? Many people argue against it. There are those who think it’s unhygienic to allow a dog on the bed, while others believe the dog will get the idea it’s on the same power level as people, which somehow will make it untrainable, aggressive or dominant. If you watch puppies sleeping, they all snuggle up together in a tangle of legs, heads and bellies. It’s natural and comforting, and in the wild it would be safer. Many of my young adult dogs still prefer to sleep in a jumble of bodies than alone. When adopted puppies are first separated from their litter-mates, it’s a scary time for them and adopters can expect a few nights of loud crying and whining when the puppy finds itself alone and lonely. An old wives’ tale says that those who give in and let the puppy sleep in their bedrooms will never be able to move it out again. That’s not true – but even if it were, what’s wrong with that?

Sally Andersen is the founder of Hong Kong Dog Rescue, a charity that rescues, rehabilitates and re-homes unwanted or abandoned dogs.

budge up Pet interview Name: Milky. Age: 14. Origin: The streets of Sai Kung. Home: Sai Kung Leisure Bookstore. Owner: Book master, Kevin Kwok. Relationship status: Single (by choice). Hobby: Posing in front of the store. Occupation: Real-life Maneki-neko (Happy cat of fortune). Accomplishments: Famous portrait and minor Sai Kung celebrity. View on global warming: Global what-ing? How long have you been a bookkeeper? Since the store opened – I love the books, they make good beds. What do you read? Cats Daily, I’m on every page. My modelling career really kicked off. Why are you so popular? Because of my beauty and ability to sleep in any position. Duh! Milky lives in the Leisure Bookstore. Shop 6, Sai Kung Garden, Chan Man Street, Sai Kung, 2791 9629, 9831 5266, leisuresk@yahoo.com.hk.

Calling all dog lovers Can your poodle predict the future? Does your doberman do backflips? 13 July 20

ggie Iss

The Do

Next month Sai Kung Magazine is dedicating an issue to our canine friends. So if you’ve got a dog with a story or talent, we want to hear from you. Send all your doggie info to editor@saikung.com and look out for your pooch in the July issue.

Best pet-friendly restaurant? Tell us by voting in our Readers’ Choice Awards for the chance to win prizes worth $50,000. Vote at www.saikung.com.

WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 47

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ICHK Hong Lok Yuen is an international school in the New Territories. We have more than 30 years experience in creating excellence in education for students, from Nursery through to Year 6. We are a fully authorised IBPYP school, with great emphasis on numeracy and literacy. The school has excellent facilities and our playing field enables students to play and enjoy sports. INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE HONG KONG - HONG LOK YUEN 20th Street, Hong Lok Yuen, New Territories Tel: (852) 2658 6935, Web: www.hlyis.edu.hk, Email: info@hlyis.edu.hk

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classifieds LOCAL PROPERTY Sai Kung Garden House HK$58 K Ref~SK035 SOLE AGENT - 3 Bedroom House with Sea Views & Shared Pool. Modern Decor. Fully Equipped Kitchen & Great Bathrooms. High Ceilings, Lawn Garden, 2 C/p. Convenient for Public Transport. www.thepropertyshop.com.hk 27193977 C-027656

Services Smiling Winds Landscape & Maintenance If you’re trying to transform your backyard on a budget look no further. We take care of all soft and hard scape garden projects and maintenance. Lawn care, hedge trimming and pruning shrubs and plant care. Paths, patios, walling and fencing. Artificial fishpond, waterfalls. Garden clean up’s and make over’s. All types of garden work. Regular Service or one OFFs. All free no obligation quotations are booked at your convenience. Contact Leo on 60569010, 56886962 or Mail us at smilingwindslandscape@gmail.com. NATIONAL HARBOUR RENOVATIONS Home and office reno upgrades. Plumbing, electrical and handyman services. Call Charles 90851886, info@nationalharbour.com.hk www.nationalharbour.hk.

Great for Entertaining HK$95 K Ref~CWB472 Beautifully Renovated 4 Bedroom Clearwater Bay Home. Fabulous Kitchen, Amazing Private Garden Terrace, Popular Location. www.thepropertyshop.com.hk 27193977 C-027656

HOLIDAY LET Can't accommodate your relative or friend? Fully furnished two bedroom apt available near Sai Kung Town. Rental from $650 per night. Minimum one week stay. Email to: wingctse@yahoo.co.uk.

Overseas Property

Galle, Sri Lanka Superb 4b/r Villas, Rent and Sale Close to beach & Galle Fort Private Pool, Fully Staffed www.watura.com Owner: Sue 9754 5967.

NEED A HOLIDAY? PHUKET VILLA FOR RENT! Luxury 5 beds villa with swimming pool located in Surin area. Walking distance to beaches. Reasonable rates! Website: www.phuketvilla4rent. com Email the owner: info@phuketvilla4rent.com.

Relax in the English countryside Fresh air, rolling countryside and five-star accommodation enjoy it all at Cuckoo Lodge, a four-bedroom eco-cottage in the South West of England. Enjoy walking, cycling, fishing and horse riding in this designated area of outstanding natural beauty. Plus lots of cultural, shopping and dining opportunities in nearby Taunton, Exeter, Bristol or Bath. See www.millmeadow.co.uk for more information.

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COMPUTER SERVICES Microtechhk(HK).COM provides onsite support to day-to-day computer (MAC/ WINDOWS) usage since 1992, Call us for any Hardware/ software, internet problems, wifi setup, data recovery Reasonable Price 24/7 hotline : 23976418

Accountancy and Consultancy Services We provide quality and reliable accounting and consultancy services. We have good experiences working for EXPAT and handle their Taxation matters. Reasonable Quote! Email:ckkprofservices@gmail. com Tel: 852 3622 1364

Employment / Recruitment Interior Designer • Degree or Diploma / IVE in interior design or related disciplines. • Minimum 3 years experience in design projects. • Good communication skills, project management skill and teamwork ability. • Good design sense and passion to design work. • Knowledge of AutoCAD and 3D studio with on site coordination experience. • Good communication in English & Cantonese. • Immediate availability is an advantage. • Candidates with less experience will be considered as Assistant Designer. Please email your CV and contact details to mandy@boxdesign.com.hk. Website : www.boxdesign.com

Health and Wellbeing Yoga with Yoyo Build up a Yogic Body with a Vedic Mind Peaceful environment with High Energy vibrant in Sai Kung Town Email: info@yoyoyoga.net Tel: 93023931 Website: www.yoyoyoga.net.

Massage @ Home, Hotel Body massage. Our therapists offer mobile outcall service after 7:00 pm $700/2hrs & Lai Hing Lok Body Massage Centre. Address : G/F No.24, Main Street, Sai Kung. By Appointment Tel. 6690 3658.

classifieds TUITION Jesse Taekwondo & Hapkido Korea Kukkiwon Black-belt 5th Dan International Instructor. Provide One-on-One personal training, Group training & Family classes. http://www.supra.com.hk/jessetkd Master Chow 9467-7787. Instruction in Guitar, Bass and Music Fundamentals in Sai Kung area with master musician. I believe in a relaxed approach. With the pressure of school life, it is not realistic to expect hours of daily practice. I work with students to get the best out the time that they have. Expert recording services are also available. Please call 2791 4968 http://www.peterscherr.com. I am a British university student studying engineering, seeking tutoring jobs in the Sai Kung area. I have a brilliant understanding in maths and English, and am available to tutor primary school students between June 15th and July 20th. Please contact by email: nath_103@yahoo.co.uk.

MUSIC TUITION AT HOME: Individual lessons for piano repertoire / music theory / piano accompaniment and aural practice for other instruments’ exams / competitions. English / Chinese instruction. Holder of LTCL with Distinction of Trinity College London. Years of teaching experience. Member of professional charity choir. Please call 9336 8059 for details.

ViANNE MUSiC WONDERLAND PRiVATE PiANO LESSONS @ YOUR HOME www.mymusicwonderland.com Experienced tutor offers an inspired & creative lesson for kids, especially aged 2+. STUDENT ANNUAL RECITAL/ EXAMINATION Trial Lesson, Tel:6014 - 9389 / mschanpiano@yahoo.com.

Food and Beverage Why not kick off your next BBQ/Social function with friends and host a wine tasting? Experience South Africa's finest wines delivered direct to your door Contact: Annette - 6291-3277. Email: grapevinetastings@ gmail.com. Website: www.grapevinetastingshk.com.

Mandarin Lesson 普通話上門導師輔導 (for age above 5yrs) Playgroup (6-24 mos, 2-6yrs) One to One Lesson Tel:6821-5917 mandarin_lesson1@yahoo.com.hk

Charity SAI KUNG STRAY FRIENDS DOG OF THE MONTH JUNE: “Ben” Aged: 3 years, Male, Desexed, Fully Vaccinated. Ben is an affectionate chap. He actually talks to you! He just loves Company. Ben is a HK local mix. He has been with us at the kennels now for a year and is no trouble at all. The SPCA took Ben from his previous Owner as he needed treatment for a bad wound and they assessed Ben as being a very lovely dog and needed a chance to be rehomed. Adoption trial welcome. Visit Ben Monday - Sunday 12.30pm – 4.00pm at our Adoption Centre Ph. 2335.1126 No. 151 Tai Lam Wu, Sai Kung. Call Narelle 9199.2340 or Catherine 6799.7530.

Mandarin / Cantonese speaking nanny -- available to play with your kids, read them stories and guide the kids to discover the daily life. Mandarin tutors -- available to tutor primary and secondary students, experience in helping students to prepare IGCSE, IB, AL... Please visit CALL-ATUTOR.COM, or call 2572 8989.

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the ultimate guide to sai kung Community & Health

Transport & Travel Services

L.R.P.LTD - Online Stress Relief

Crown Relocations 2636 8388 | hongkong@crownrelo.com www.crownrelo.com/hongkong

9127 4340 | coach@coachmonika.com www.coachmonika.com Annerley — maternity and early childhood professionals www.annerley.com.hk Resurrection Church 2358 3232 | www.resurrection.org.hk Sai Kung Outdoor Recreation Centre 2792 3828 The Sai Kung Jockey Club Town Hall 3740 5328 / 2792 1487 Wellness & birth, pre & postnatal home care 9022 1779 | www.wellnessandbirth.com info@wellnessandbirth.com

Fashion & Beauty A-Nails 2792 1099 | www.a-nails.com.hk Au Lait Online Nursing & Maternity Wear www.aulait.com.hk Bronze mobile spray tanning 6234 8594 bronzemobilespraytanning@yahoo.com Nuan Cashmere sales@nuancashmere.com www.nuancashmere.com Philips Sonicare 2619 9663 | www.philips.com.hk Sense of Touch 2791 2278 | ask@senseoftouchhk.com www.senseoftouch.com.hk Tala’s Hair & Beauty Centre 2335 1694 | talashair@biznetvigator.com www.talashairandbeautycentre.com Zone@Sai Kung Reflexology Center 2886 8804 / 9779 0761 | info@zone-massage.com www.zone-massage.com

Multimedia

The Reading Room (Sai Kung)

5 Tai Po Tsai, Clearwater Bay Road, Sai Kung, New Territories | 9199 5900 seasidereadingroom@gmail.com Chunky Onion Productions Ltd. 3188 1874 | birthdays@chunkyonion.com www.chunkyonion.com

Boating Explorer Motor Yachts (HK) Ltd 9261 0785 | hk@explorermotoryachts.com www.explorermotoryachts.com Kenny Tang 5307 3228 | kythkg@gmail.com

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Home Box Design

2573 3323 info@boxdesign.com.hk www.boxdesign.com.hk

Expert-Transport & Relocations Warehouse 2566 4799 | www.expertmover.hk Hebe Haven Yacht Club 2719 0926 | sailadmin@hhyc.org.hk www.hhyc.org.hk Kwong Hing Motors Ltd 2791 4949 | http://khmwhk.com Sai Kung Motors 2792 2998 | www.saikungmotors.com.hk

Pets & Vets Animal Behaviour Vet Practice 9618 2475 | cynthia@petbehaviourhk.com www.petbehaviourhk.com Animal Emergency Centre 2915 7979 | trilby@animalemergency.com.hk Best Friends Veterinary Hospital 2792 8555 Homevet 9860 5522 | pets@homevet.com.hk www.homevet.com.hk Ferndale Kennel 2792 4642 | boarding@ferndalekennels.com www.ferndalekennels.com Vet2Pet 6999 1003 | vet2pet@yahoo.com www.vet2pet.com.hk

Food & Beverage South Stream Seafoods

Units 202-204, Lai Sun Yuen Long Centre, 27 Wang Yip St East, Yuen Long, N.T. Hong Kong | 2555 6200 fish@south-stream-seafoods.com www.south-stream-seafoods.com Colour Brown Coffee 2791 7128 | shop.colourbrown.com.hk Edible Arrangements 2295 1108 / 2385 0158 www.EdibleArrangements.hk Green dot dot 3181 4488 | www.greendotdot.com

Best United Eng. Ltd. / lawnings, roll shutter & insect screen 2344 9028 | info@bestunited.com.hk www.bestunited.com.hk Brooks Thompson Ltd 2851 3665 | iqbalhk@netvigator.com Chez Uno 2791 9662 / 2723 8990 | www.chezuno.com Eco Living 2792 2998 | askus@ecoliving.hk www.ecoliving.hk JCAW Consultants 2524 9988 | jcawltd@biznetvigator.com Lift Lifestyle International Ltd 3907 0386 | liftlifestyle@gmail.com www.liftlifestyle.com Marco Electrician, Plumber, House painting, Air Conditioning 6190 8051 | marco_yeung000@hotmail.com Patio Mart 2555 8988 | patio@kh-group.com www.patiomart.com.hk The Fabulous Towel Co Ltd www.fabuloustowelco.com The Handyman HK 9268 0514 / 9871 5508 thehandymanhk@gmail.com Wicka Designs Limited 2422 0885 | enquiry@wickadesigns.com www.wickadesigns.com Wofu Deco 2768 8428 | info@wofudeco.com.hk www.wofudeco.com.hk

Toys, Accessories & Kids’ Parties

Bumps to Babes

2552 5000 (Ap Lei Chau Main Store) 2522 7112 (Pedder Building Branch) www.bumpstobabes.com

Hebe One O One 2335 5515 | info@101.com.hk www.hebe101.com

Babies R US 2287 1788 | hk@babiesrus@toyrus.com www.babiesrus.com.hk

Natural Springs 2484 1388 | www.naturalsprings.hk

Cariad Apparel Company Limited 3689 9416 | info@cariad.com.hk

Pacific Rich Resources (HK) Ltd 2316 7290 | office1@pacificrichresources.com

EEK Toy Shop 3487 3053

Paisano’s Pizzeria 2791 4445 | www.paisanos.com.hk

Hazel Ltd saleshazel@biznetvigator.com

The Dutch www.thedutch.hk

Rumple and Friends www.rumpleandfriends.com

Top Chefs Food Services Ltd. 2358 2332 | http://tcdeli.com

Tiny Footprints 2552 2466 | www.tinyfootprints.com

directory Education

Education

Anastassia’s Art House 2104 3303/ 2812 6465 stanleyplaza@arthouse-hk.com repulsebay@arthouse-hk.com www.arthouse-hk.com

Sai Kung Tutors 5321 4400 | info@saikungtutors.com www.saikungtutors.com

Anfield School admin@anfield.edu.hk www.anfield.edu.hk

Sunshine House International Pre school 2358 3803 | www.sunshinehouse.com.hk

Antsmart Learning Centre / Playgroup, Math 2335 1261 | tangfrancis@hotmail.com www.playgroup.com.hk Bricks 4 Kidz 2791 0007 | saikung@bricks4kidz.hk www.bricks4kidz.hk Concordia international School 2789 9890 | office@cihs.edu.hk www.cihs.edu.hk Craft Hour 6757 2564 | crafthourasia@gmail.com www.crafthourasia.com Easy English for Kids Limited 3487 3053 | www.eek.com.hk ESF Educational Services LTD 9131 6745 | ben.costello@esf.org.hk www.esf.org.hk German Swiss International School 2961 4008 | www.gsis.edu.hk Hong Kong Academy 2655 1111 | www.hkacademy.edu.hk Hong Kong International Tennis Academy 9048 2810 | lea.lai@hkita.com www.hkita.com Hong Lok Yuen International School 2658 6935 | info@hlyis.edu.hk www.hkyishk.com ITS 3188 3946 | jennifer.c@tuition.com.hk Jumpstart Mandarin Learning Centre 2791 4838 | jumpstart@netvigator.com www.jumpstartmlc.com Kellet School admissions@kellettschool.com www.kelletschool.com Leapfrog Kindergarten 2791 1540 / 6413 8247 admin@leapfrogkindergarten.org www.leapfrogkindergarten.org Les Petits Lascars Sai Kung: 2526 8892 | saikung@petitslascars. com www.lespetitslascars.com Island: 2526 8892 | central@petitslascars.com www.petitslascars.com

SKIP 2791 7354 | www.skip.edu.hk

The Edge Learning Center 2783 7100 / 2972 2555 info@theedge.com.hk | www.theedge.com.hk

Other Services Best United Engineering Limited 2344 9028 | www.bestunited.com.hk Biocycle 3575 2575 | info@biocycle.hk www.biocycle.com.hk Christian Environmental Health 2370 9236 | a-s-a-p@ceh.com.hk www.ceh.com.hk Clover Auto Service 2790 1810 Federal Elite Consultants Ltd. 3568 4691 | info@federalelite.com Island Property Consultancy Ltd 6256 4353 King Kong Ping Pong info@kingkong-pingpong.com www.kingkong-pingpong.com Nature’s Harvest 2723 3126 www.naturesharvest.com.hk Perfect Party Hong Kong 6770 5591 | laura@perfectpartyhk.com Professional Wills Limited 2561 9031 | www.profwills.com Relosmart 2561 3030 | enquiry@relosmart.asia www.relosmart.asia Roomplus 2331 7331 / 2331 7333 | www.roomplus.com.hk SameButDifferent Silver 6626 5424 | samebutdifferent.silver@gmail.com www.samebutdifferent.co Sum Hing Carton Box Factory info@boxx.hk | www.boxx.hk

Financial Services

Real-Estate & Hotels Hong Kong Gold Coast Residences

1 Castle Peak Road, Castle Peak Bay, N.T., HK | 2457 0789 galycowen@sino.com www.goldcoast.com.hk

Tam Amodio Properties

Hong Kong +852 5190 3041 tam@tamamodio.com www.tamamodio.com Grand Hyatt Hong Kong 2956 1234 | http://hongkong.grand.hyatt.com Repulse Bay Company Ltd 2292 2878 | www.therepulsebay.com Vegas Suites 3963 7888 | www.vegasuites.com.hk

Social, Sports & Equipment LEE PARKER Golf Coaching

9126 1413 | lee@theoldgolfpro.com Asia Pacific Soccer Schools 2385 9677 | www.apsoccerhk.com Blue Sky Sports Club 2791 0806 | info@bluesky-sc.com www.bluesky-sc.com Cambridge Weight Plan Hong Kong 9618 1777 / 9045 5942 www.cambridgeweightplan.hk Everfine Membership Services Limited 2174 7880 | enquiry@evergolf.com.hk www.evergolf.com.hk Hong Kong Rugby Football Union 6343 5303 | katherine.chan@hkrugby.com www.HKRugby.com Impact Fitness 6385 0304 | www.impactfitness.com.hk Imran Cricket Academy 2575 3400/ 9745 2700 imran@imranacademy.com www.imranacademy.com Outdoor Fitness 9043 4674 | www.outdoorfitness.hk dayle@outdoorfitness.hk Outward Bound Hong Kong matt@outwardbound.org.hk www.outwardbound.org.hk Pilates Plus 9756 1659 | brubar@netvigator.com

Financial Planning Excellence info@fpehk.com | www.fpehk.com

The Country Club at Hong Lok Yuen 2657 8899 | enquiries@cchly.com www.cchly.com

Mills International Preschool 2717 6336 | www.millsinternational.com.hk

Kwiksure 3113 2112 | christian@kwiksure.com www.kwiksure.com

Weight Watchers 2813 0814 | kmahjoubian@weightwatchers.com.hk www.weightwatchers.com.hk

Panda Pottery 6439 2387 / 6041 9613 www.pandapottery.com

Events

Lighthouse Playroom 2791 2918 | info@lighthouseplayroom.com www.lighthouseplayroom.com

Quest study skills 2690 9117 | www.queststudyskills.com

Lions vs Barbarians www.lionsrugby.hk

Get listed call 2776 2772 email marketing@saikung.com WWW.SAIKUNG.COM | 57

on patrol

top cops

Gotcha! How the police caught “Spider-Man”, Sai Kung’s notorious cat burglar. By Tim Sharpe. Burglaries are a hot topic of conversation, judging from this magazine’s Letters column last month. So readers will be relieved to hear that Sai Kung police have caught the cat burglar whose dexterity, physical strength and sheer nerve led us, begrudgingly, to call him “Spider-Man”. He is believed to have carried out a number of burglaries that left us perplexed, exhausted and angry. Over the past few weeks, unlucky residents of (mostly) village houses have woken to find their homes ransacked and property missing. Wallets and iPhones were taken from bedside tables while their owners slept. Police invariably found windows, doors or rooftops unlocked, making it apparent we were dealing with someone who climbed drainpipes and air-conditioning units to make his entry several floors up. On one occasion, we found a rope attached to the rooftop of one property that we believe he used to swing to the rooftop of another village house, Tarzan-style. I made the arrest of this individual the station’s top priority. Leave was cancelled, officers worked multiple and irregular shifts, barely seeing their families, which caused friction and stress. And after all the hard work, we got lucky. Last month, at about 2am, we got an emergency call from a homeowner in Pak Wai, near Marina Cove, saying his home was being burgled. Emergency Unit officers (the 999 responders) were at the scene in minutes, closely followed by our Rural Patrol Unit (RPU). The house was in uproar. The homeowner had woken to find the burglar in his darkened bedroom rifling through a drawer. He chased after him, but the burglar ran into the night.

Officers calmed the household down and through expert questioning discovered the owner had installed a GPS (global positioning system) app on his iPad, which had just been stolen. The officers immediately used a laptop to open the app and track the burglar’s movements in real time, revealing a green blip moving rapidly to a nearby hillside, before it disappeared when the burglar turned the device off. Knowing the area, RPU officers surmised dense undergrowth made the hillside virtually impenetrable; with no chance of fighting through it, the burglar must come back down to the road. A stakeout was authorised with officers in the foliage and deployed covertly along the road. Two officers even hid in a rat-infested drainage ditch. Then they waited... After three hours, a shadowy figure emerged in the gathering dawn. Our officers swung into action and, after a short chase and struggle, a man was detained. All the stolen property from the burglary was recovered along with various other articles. Believing he was responsible for a string of burglaries, the District Crime Squad was called out. These experienced detectives rapidly matched the recovered property with other recent burglaries. DNA and fingerprints were matched to other incidents across Hong Kong. The arrested man was a Chinese illegal immigrant. He wasn’t dressed in the black clothes he was wearing when allegedly committing the burglary, but had changed into ordinary clothes on the hillside and was planning to catch a bus into Kowloon. He was carrying a key believed to

photo competiton Submit your shot Here at the Sai Kung Magazine office, we love receiving beautiful pictures of Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay from our readers. Each month we publish our favourite. To enter, simply email your best shots of Sai Kung and Clearwater Bay, along with a brief description, to photo@fastmedia.com.hk. This month’s winner: Diane Powers took this image of a salt farm in Sai Kung.

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belong to a guesthouse room in Mong Kok, which we flooded with officers looking for his lair. After dozens of guesthouses, we hit the jackpot. The key opened a room that was an Aladdin’s cave of stolen property, further linking him to other burglaries. The man has been charged with multiple counts of burglary and other offences. Should he be found guilty he will be spending many years sewing mailbags, or whatever they do in prison these days. To give an idea of how prolific “SpiderMan” was, for three weeks after the arrest there was not a single burglary in Sai Kung. I would love to say I was at the forefront of the action but I was at home asleep. However, police officers at the scene and the follow-up detectives did an amazing job. And it makes the advantage of installing GPS tracking devices on your hi-tech gadgets apparent. Please make use of them. Sai Kung is an amazingly safe place to live, but please take the same precautions you would take elsewhere to stay secure.

Tim Sharpe is the Police DVC for Sai Kung.

shoot for it