The last season of 2012 saw Macao’s sporting world roared with considerable excitement. There were Macao International Marathon favored by avid runners, Macao Open authorized by the Asian Tour, Macao Open Badminton Grand Prix Gold empowered by the Badminton World Federation, in addition to world-class standard dance and Latin dance performances. Our reports in this issue allow you to take a close look at each of these splendid events that were staged in the town.

The “Spotlight” of this issue will introduce you to the features of basketball, badminton and bowling recreational classes as well as to the advantages of playing these kinds of sports, so you will have a better understanding and to pick the sport that is right for you.

Not to be outshone by the competitive sport events, this season Sport for All activities were also full of highlights and excitements, including sport and art extravaganzas in celebration of the National Day and the anniversary of Macao’s handover, popular Free Sports Ground ball games competition together with  Autumn Cycling Tour. Through these wonderful activities, the citizen of Macao could together  feel the joy, harmony and vitality bought through sports.

Winter swimming, a well-like exercise of the locals, helps improve cardio respiratory fitness and strengthen the body immune system. However winter swimmers are prone to muscle cramps due to the difference between body temperature and water temperature. This issue’s Insight on Sport Science  will share some tips with you on how to prevent cramps when swimming and to deal with swimming accidents.

In the New Year, we shall continue to uphold the Macao SAR Government’s vision of “people-based” governance, to enhance our work in the area of Sport for All, competitive sport and facilitate  development in Macao.

Mr. Vong Iao Lek