Stepping into an exciting summer, the Macao sports community has become livelier. Aside from the FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix which is familiar to Macao citizens, various international events have also been held, including the World Universities Games, the Asian Youth Games, the Asian Indoor & Martial Arts Games and the National Games of the People’s Republic of China. The Macao Special Administrative Region has also sent some teams to participate in these major sports events. Readers can fall under the charm of the newly-formed China Women’s National Volleyball Team again in ‘Sports News’ of this issue, as well as feel the Macao athletes’ courageous spirit and determination in competing against their strong opponents in the international events.

Over the years, the SAR Government has been paying a lot of attention on nurturing teenagers. Every year, a wide variety of Summer Activities are offered to all children and teenagers in Macao, encouraging them to fully utilize their free time by participating in activities that are beneficial to their physical and mental well-being. They can then build up a positive attitude toward life and develop an interest in sports, which in turn helps spot out potential athletes for further training. In addition, under the framework of the ‘Beijing-Macao Sports Development and Cooperation Agreement’, the first ‘Beijing-Macao Youth Exchange Activity’ has been held; whereas under the framework of the ‘Cooperation Agreement between the Macao Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China and the Portuguese Republic on the Area of Sports’, athletes of the ‘Macao Football Youth Academy’ have been arranged to travel to Portugal for group training and exchange. Readers can look for further information from the relevant columns.

In order to better promote the sports for all concept - ‘Let’s Exercise for a Better Health’, the elderly are encouraged to exercise more and develop a good exercise habit in order to stay healthy. We have co-organized the ‘2013 Macao Elderly Sports Day’ with various organizations, establishing a platform for the elderly and their family members, as well as the general public, to share the fun of exercising. Through each exquisite photo, readers can appreciate the elderly’s charm and share their joy.

In ‘Sports and Rehabilitation’ of this issue, the causes of an ankle sprain, together with its treatment and rehabilitation exercises, will be introduced. Readers can learn more about that to avoid the occurrence of repeated sprains.

Finally, we would like to inform you of the updates on our efforts in expanding the public sports facilities network. Citizens are welcome to use the two newly added sports facilities. Meanwhile, we will continue to seek cooperation opportunities from well-equipped schools and organizations for expanding more space for exercising. It can encourage citizens to actively take part in sports and lead a healthy life, therefore realizing the keep fit for all concept - ‘Let’s Exercise for a Better Health’.

JOSÉ M.F. TAVARES