top of page
Mark Mak, Operation Director and Executive Committee Chairman of GBAYCIA, Royal Yachting Association Senior Instructor

Leadership Philosophy
"Sailing instruction is not about producing people who can handle a boat in fair weather. It is about building the judgment to make correct decisions when conditions change — on the water and off it."

Mark Mak

Operation Director & Executive Committee Chairman

Mark Mak Chi Wing has spent over two decades building the operational and educational infrastructure for competitive sailing in Hong Kong. As a Senior Instructor certified by the Royal Yachting Association (UK) and the Hong Kong Sailing Federation, he holds qualifications across dinghy, keelboat, multihull, and powerboat disciplines. He founded University Cup Regatta Limited to create a structured competitive platform for university-level sailors, and serves as an SEN Sport Instructor at The Education University of Hong Kong, delivering sailing programs for students with Special Educational Needs. At GBAYCIA, he serves as Operation Director and Executive Committee Chairman, applying his background in event management, instructor certification, and community program development to the operational governance of the association.

The Professional Pillars

  • Operation Director & Executive Committee Chairman, Greater Bay Area Yacht & Cruise Industry Association (GBAYCIA)

  • Founder & Managing Director, University Cup Regatta Limited

  • Certified Senior Instructor, Royal Yachting Association (UK) & Hong Kong Sailing Federation

  • SEN Sport Instructor, The Education University of Hong Kong


Industry Impact

  • Instructor Certification: Holds Senior Instructor certification from the Royal Yachting Association (UK) across dinghy, keelboat, multihull, and powerboat disciplines — one of the most comprehensive sailing qualification portfolios in Hong Kong.

  • Competitive Event Development: Founded University Cup Regatta Limited, establishing a dedicated competitive sailing platform for Hong Kong's university sector and providing structured pathways for emerging talent.

  • Inclusive Sailing Programs: Developed and delivers sailing programs for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN) at The Education University of Hong Kong, extending access to the sport beyond conventional participation groups.

  • GBAYCIA Operations: Oversees the operational governance and executive committee functions of GBAYCIA, ensuring the association's day-to-day activities and strategic initiatives are executed to standard.

More Than Just a Résumé

The Bridge King: Engineering Hong Kong’s Icons 
From 1996 to 2002, Dr. Lau Ching-kwong spearheaded a golden era of infrastructure development in Hong Kong. As Chief Engineer of the Tsing Ma Bridge, he oversaw the delivery of a world-record suspension bridge that became an enduring symbol of the city’s engineering prowess. His leadership extended to the Kap Shui Mun Bridge and Ting Kau Bridge, collectively forming the critical Lantau Link. These achievements solidified his reputation as the "Hong Kong Bridge King," fundamentally transforming the city’s connectivity and iconic skyline. 

The Regional Integrator: Connecting the Greater Bay Area 
Dr. Lau’s influence extends significantly beyond Hong Kong, encompassing pivotal roles in major infrastructure initiatives across the Greater Bay Area and Mainland China. As a technical consultant for the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge’s island-tunnel project, he provided invaluable expert guidance on one of the world’s most complex sea-crossing systems. His contributions to projects like the Shenzhen Metro, Shanghai’s Yangtze River crossings, and various Guangzhou bridge developments underscore his role as a key architect of regional integration, fostering seamless connections across the dynamic economic zone. 
 
The Crisis Authority: The Expert They Call 
When Hong Kong’s most high-profile infrastructure projects encounter significant challenges, Dr. Lau is the indispensable expert sought by authorities. In 2015, MTR appointed him to conduct a comprehensive review of the Express Rail Link following cost overruns and delays. Subsequently, in 2018, he was brought in to strengthen management for the Shatin to Central Link project amidst construction controversies. His consistent ability to provide calm, technically sound guidance during crises has established him as an unparalleled authority in Hong Kong’s infrastructure discourse, restoring public and stakeholder confidence. 

Dr. Lau’s 36-year career in government service, from 1966 to 2002, exemplifies a profound dedication to public service and technical excellence. Rising through the ranks from Assistant Engineer to Director of the Civil Engineering Department, he has not only overseen monumental projects but also passionately mentored generations of engineers. He remains a fervent advocate for young people pursuing engineering careers, articulating his belief that "Professional engineers make significant contributions to social development – the satisfaction from completed projects far exceeds the efforts invested." His work has spanned four continents, from Hong Kong’s iconic bridges to feasibility studies for cross-sea bridges in Malaysia and Indonesia, earning him international recognition as the "Hong Kong Bridge King."

bottom of page