Summer is here and, more than ever before, we’re itching to get out and about! If, like us, you’re keen for your kids to have a break that’s jam-packed with fun activities, be sure to take a look at the offerings at Hong Kong Golf & Tennis Academy (HKGTA). The 820,000-square-foot retreat in Sai Kung has just unveiled a Summer Camp bonanza that we’re as excited about as our little ones.
From 30 June through until the end of August, HKGTA will host more than a dozen different camps for children – from toddlers aged 18 months up to young adults of 18 years; and even some for the parents. The camps will take advantage of the Academy’s world-class indoor and outdoor sports and recreational facilities, covering everything from golf, tennis, swimming and water sports, to debating, music, drama and more. Read on for the details…
# Debating the matter
Give the summer heat a swerve and help your kids improve their communication skills and critical thinking at the Debate & Presentation Skills course by Arch Education. Led by Sandeep Chulani, coach and selector of the Hong Kong Debate Team, it introduces public speaking and the art of debate through spoken and written activities.
# Performing arts perfection
Help nurture the talent of your mini superstar at the Music & Theatre Summer Institute by Cedar Academy, Hong Kong’s premier summer performing arts programme. Designed for ages five and up, and all levels of experience, this five-day, four-night camp is led by world-class musicians, actors, theatre professionals and educators who’ll help kids spread their creative wings.
For even younger performance fans, the Music Retreat for Parents & Children is a series of customised workshops led by Cedar Academy’s early childhood educators that will have your little ones trying different instruments, learning music essentials and even enjoying outdoor sports activities at HKGTA. It’s suitable for ages 18 months to five years, and no prior musical learning experience is needed.
# Swing into summer
Got a budding Tiger Woods at home? Whether they’re brandishing a club for the first time or are halfway to becoming a pro, HKGTA’s Golf Camps will hone their skills and elevate their interest in the sport. Seasoned golf professionals will train, support and encourage children of all ages and stages to excel, covering everything from position to swing.
# Ace your game
HKGTA offers a range of summer Tennis Camps. There are half- and full-day options, elite invitation-only sessions, and even overnight stays where kids can bond with others in a fun environment. Everything from basic techniques to hand-eye coordination is covered, giving young players the tools to excel on and off the court.
# Meet a legend
Calling future Wimbledon champions! Join the Bruguera Tennis Camp for a masterclass with Luis Bruguera, founder of Bruguera Tennis Academy. The tennis legend will give young players the chance to soak up his expertise, experience and tennis philosophy in person – and to see why his Academy’s alumni include grand slam champions Gabine Muguruza and Sergi Bruguera.
# Get physical
The specially designed Fitness Camp is suitable for ages four and above. It’s a full-day camp designed to channel children’s energy productively this summer, with a variety of exercises, tests and mini games that develop teamwork, encourage personal growth and improve vital skills like balance, hand-eye coordination, speed and agility.
# Be water wise
As the mercury rises, it’s time to get cool in the pool! Dive into one of HKGTA’s expert-led summer Swim Camps, held in collaboration with the renowned Eliteswim Academy. Suitable for ages three and over, the camps are designed to build water confidence and perfect stroke technique in a safe, supervised environment and a fun group setting.
# Double the fun
Why pick one sport when you could try dozens? The MultiSports Camp introduces kids to a wide range of activities. Under the expert eyes of instructors, they’ll try their hand at everything from soccer and basketball, to handball, tag rugby, dodgeball, and arts and crafts. It’ll give everyone the chance to find a new favourite pastime for the summer.
# Embrace the action
Kids aged six to 10 years are set for an action-packed time with HKGTA’s Active Kids Camp. This camp covers a range of exciting and educational activities, from the science bent of Powerful Planet, to Mission Runway Fashion Design camp – ideal for fashionistas. Alternatively, whip up a tasty treat at Stormy Chefs, or uncover the future of tech at the STEM-based RoboCode Camp.
# Be a builder
Everything is awesome this summer, as kids’ creativity gets unleashed on the world’s most popular toy at LEGO Camp. Following model plans and themed learning units, they’ll work together to create favourite characters – including from Marvel and Pokémon – while enjoying creative play opportunities.
# Sail away
Feeling the heat? What could be cooler than some wet and wild Aquatic Adventures? Head to the beautiful calm waters of Hebe Haven where children aged three and above and their families will have the chance to experience a range of exciting water sports – from kayaking to sailing and stand-up paddle-boarding. There’s a session for beginners and experts alike.
The summer camps are exclusively available to HKGTA patrons and their families. To find out more, or for admission details to the Academy, call 3187 8900 or email enquiry@hkgta.com. hkgta.com
This article first appeared in the June 2020 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
