Ready for action: Secretary for Food & Health Dr York Chow inspects the equestrian quarantine office.

Secretary for Food & Health Dr York Chow has urged frontline staff at Hong Kong's Olympic Village and equestrian venues to be prepared for the challenge of providing top-notch services for riders and horses.

He asked them to show their professionalism to make the Olympic and Paralympic Equestrian Events in Hong Kong a success.

Dr Chow today inspected equestrian facilities in Sha Tin to see final preparations for the Olympics. He thanked staff of the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation and Food & Environmental Hygiene Departments, the Department of Health, the Hospital Authority, the Auxiliary Medical Services and volunteers for their readiness and hard work.

Dr Chow also talked to French, Dutch, Canadian and Hong Kong athletes and met President of the International Federation for Equestrian Events Veterinary Commission Dr Nigel Nichols.

Dr Nichols and the athletes are happy with the facilities and services provided, saying the horses are settling in well. Some praised Hong Kong for giving them the best stables they have ever had.