The Major Sports Events Committee today announced that it has awarded “M” Mark status to the World City Championship presented by the Hong Kong Golf Club and the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens.

The two events will take place from March 23 to 26 and March 31 to April 2.

Wilfred Ng, the committee’s chairman, described both occasions as ones that will add colour and vibrancy to Hong Kong, thereby bringing in more visitors from abroad.

“The ‘M’ Mark events showcase Hong Kong’s capability to host world-class events and enhance Hong Kong’s position as a centre for major international sports events.

“These events not only give an opportunity for local athletes to compete on home ground, but also allow Hong Kong audiences to enjoy high-level competitions and cultivate a sporting culture in the community.”

Launched in 2004, the “M” Mark system helps local national sports associations organise more major international sports events and nurtures them into sustainable undertakings. What’s more, the system also provides funding support to some events.