Year 7 pupils this week had a unique opportunity to see STEM and sustainability brought to life at the Volvo Ocean Race stopover at Kai Tak, Kowloon.
The Volvo Ocean Race – a nine month, 45,000 nautical mile sailing race around the globe – is described as the longest and toughest professional sporting event in the world, and one of sailing’s ‘Big Three’ alongside the Olympic Games and the America’s Cup.
Harrow Hong Kong pupils were given a behind the scenes tour of the Race Village and Boat Yard at the Kai Tak Runway Park, and enjoyed interactive, hands-on experiences with a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) focus.
Activities centred on sustainable materials and energy production, and also gave pupils an opportunity to see the technology involved in the race as well as a taste of life at close quarters in the 65-foot race boats.
The race carries a strong sustainability and environmental protection message, with pupils also learning about the impact of plastic pollution.
This is the first time the Volvo Ocean Race has come to Hong Kong, and the first time a Hong Kong-flagged team has taken part in the race. Team Sun Hung Kai/Scallywag won the stage into Hong Kong from Melbourne, and Harrow pupils were proud to show their support for their home team!
A number of Harrow Sixth Form pupils have also volunteered their time during the Hong Kong stopover, assisting in a variety of roles over the in-port race weekend.