Hong Kong schoolkids meet sailing idols

After an ‘at sea’ video chat with the Sun Hung Kai Scallywag team ahead of their arrival in Hong Kong, a group of local school kids have finally got to meet their seafaring heroes in the flesh.

The children, from the Dalton School, heard about the Scallywag team whilst taking part in the Volvo Ocean Race Education Programme on plastic pollution.

Aged four-six years old, they had a live chat with the crew as they raced towards the Hong Kong finish line. Scallywag then invited the children to the Race Village to see the Education Programme in action and meet the team.

And the kids were even treated to a VIP tour of the racing boat and spent some time hanging out with their heroes. 

Shaun Porter, Vice Principal, Dalton School, said: “The kids have really taken the Education Programme to their hearts and it’s been so inspiring to see.

“They were all so excited to speak to the Sun Hung Kai Scallywag team on a live chat but then to meet them in person was beyond their wildest dreams.” 

Tim Newton, Sun Hung Kai Scallywag Team Manager, said: “The crew enjoyed meeting the children and hearing what they’ve learned about the Education Programme.

“I think it’s really important to get the message about ocean pollution to as many people as possible. It’s also great to have the support of the kids in helping us do that and also supporting the team in the Race.”

Sustainability leaders 11th Hour Racing sponsor this international education programme.

Resources are available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Swedish, Dutch and Chinese. Different cross-curricular class activities are also optional and listed in the teacher’s booklet of each topic. 

Although the booklets are age specific the 8-12 year olds booklets are a good introductory fact booklet for anyone older who also wants to be better informed on the Volvo Ocean Race, our ocean connection, ocean health and how we can reduce ocean plastic pollution.

Lucy Hunt, Volvo Ocean Race Education Programme Manager, added: “The kids had such an amazing journey learning about plastic pollution in our oceans.  

“The fact that they’ve gone from taking part in the Education Programme to meeting their ocean idols is something I’m sure they won’t forget.”

All education materials are available for free download from the website.