Cathay Pacific Inflight Service Manager, Makiko Fujita and Senior Operations Engineer, Hoffman Tik brought home a Gold and Silver medal respectively from the 3rd World Taijiquan Championships, held in Burgas, Bulgaria, at the end of last September. Makiko and Hoffman – both experienced members of the Cathay Tai Chi Club – were amongst 16 athletes selected to represent Hong Kong at the biennial competition, which is organised by the International Wushu Federation and generally regarded as the "Tai Chi Olympics" by the Wushu (martial arts) community. More than 300 athletes from 33 countries took part in the competition.

"I never imagined myself representing Hong Kong on the world stage as an athlete when I joined the Cathay Tai Chi beginner course 14 years ago," says Makiko. "It's amazing how this ancient art unites people and helps one not only to develop a strong and healthy body, but also a strong mind, with an emphasis on peace and respect. It's something that helps me stay focused when leading the cabin crew team during inflight service."

The Cathay Tai Chi Club – better known as the "Tai Chi Family" – has a long history going back to the 1980s, when the club was established by Swire management trainee programme instructor, C.C. Kwan, who recognised the positive benefits of the sport not only for health, but for career and family life. Since then, the Cathay Tai Chi team has been consistently winning awards in both local and international tournaments. "This is only the beginning of the competition season," says Hoffman. "Team members will also be representing Hong Kong in the upcoming World Taijiquan Health Congress in Guangdong and the Asian Traditional Wushu Championships in Nanjing."

Makiko (lefttop) and Hoffman at the World Taijiquan Championships selection competition in Hong Kong.