How Support from a Liver Specialist Helped Hong Kong Teen Win Pokémon Go World Championship

A 75-year-old liver specialist has been recognized as a pivotal figure in the success of a Hong Kong teenager who recently became the city’s first world champion in Pokémon Go. Notably, Sam Cheung Lok-hang, the manager of the Hong Kong Pokémon Go team, attributed their victory to the crucial support and encouragement provided by Dr. Lai Ching-lung.

Dr. Lai’s Role in the Hong Kong Pokémon Go Team’s Success

Dr. Lai Ching-lung, a distinguished hepatitis expert at the University of Hong Kong’s medical school, played a significant role in the Hong Kong Pokémon Go team’s success. Cheung mentioned that Dr. Lai offered financial backing when they struggled to secure sponsorships. “I faced daily criticism, mockery, and indifference while seeking sponsorship,” Cheung shared. “However, only Dr. Lai and one other person believed in us. In my heart, Professor Lai shares in this championship.”

Breakthrough Victory at the Pokémon Go World Championships

The breakthrough occurred on Sunday when 16-year-old Cheng Yip-kai, known online as Yekai0904, won the world title at the Pokémon Go World Championships in Honolulu, Hawaii. This victory marked a historic achievement for Hong Kong in the realm of competitive gaming.

Cheung initially contacted Dr. Lai last year, seeking funds for the Hong Kong Pokémon Go team’s travel expenses to the championships in Japan. Despite financial challenges, Dr. Lai contributed HK$10,000, a significant amount given the situation. “Dr. Lai explained that he had taken a pay cut and could only provide that amount. It was a considerable sum for us, especially since we didn’t know him well,” Cheung recounted. As a result, Dr. Lai promptly transferred the money, showcasing his dedication to the team’s success.

Continued Support and Recognition

Following his retirement from HKU in 2021, Dr. Lai became an emeritus professor but continued to encourage the team even after they didn’t succeed the previous year. He reassured them that “losing isn’t a big deal” and expressed hope for their future victories.

The Hong Kong Pokémon Go team gifted Dr. Lai Pokémon-themed items to appreciate his support. These gifts reflected his personal interest in the game. Cheung emphasized that Dr. Lai’s support was crucial to Cheng’s victory. However, the team didn’t request financial help this year, thanks to official sponsorship.

The Impact of Mentorship on Competitive Gaming

Dr. Lai expressed his joy and surprise at the team’s triumph. “I’m absolutely, totally happy about the good news,” he said. He hadn’t expected such a victory when he decided to sponsor the Hong Kong Pokémon Go team last year. Additionally, Dr. Lai recalled a brief encounter with the team during a Pokémon Go game years ago, which left a lasting impression on him.

Ultimately, this story underscores the profound impact of individual support on achieving success. Moreover, it highlights the growing recognition of Pokémon Go and its competitive scene within the broader esports community.