Sailing's formal elevation to the elite program at the Sports Institute -- a “major boost for sailors preparing for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro” -- will come a “step closer on Wednesday when the two-year review cycle ends,” according to Chan Kin-wa of the SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST. Sailing joins tennis as new members at the Fo Tan training complex. The two sports' elite status is “due to be formally ratified by the government's Elite Sports Committee in February” before being endorsed by the Sports Commission, “whereupon millions of dollars in funding” will become available to foster the sports' development. Hong Kong Sailing Federation Council Member Chan Yuk-wah said, "This will be a tangible reward to our sailors for their hard work over these years.” Under the elite program, each sport gains access to a wide range of support, including “world-class coaching staff, use of facilities, local and overseas training, and competition and full technical support.” Athletes can also receive a "maximum elite training grant” of HK$32,000 ($4,125) monthly (SCMP, 12/30).
