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When it comes to large-scale infrastructure, reliable connection solutions are crucial. For Hong Kong’s landmark Kai Tak Sports Park, NORMA Group played a vital role in delivering exactly that. We spoke with Xavier Chua, Regional Sales Manager Industry Applications, who coordinated this key project. He told us about his experience and how several teams across NORMA Group came together to make it happen.
“Our contribution to the Kai Tak Sports Park was focused on providing reliable and efficient pipe connection solutions,” Xavier explains. “It was a cross-functional effort involving multiple teams.”
Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Sports Park is the largest sports infrastructure project in Hong Kong. The new venue, which has been officially opened earlier this year, includes a stadium, an indoor sports arena, a public sports ground, and a retail and leisure district. It is designed to host international sporting events and large-scale concerts.
“Managing rainwater efficiently is a major challenge in large-scale developments – especially in Hong Kong’s tropical climate, where heavy seasonal rainfall is common,” Xavier says. At Kai Tak Sports Park, this challenge was met with the installation of a siphonic roof drainage system. Unlike traditional gravity drainage systems, siphonic systems use the natural siphon effect to move water from the roof to the outlet. This creates a full-bore flow, allowing large volumes of water to be transported quickly through smaller pipe diameters without air pockets. The advantages include high drainage capacity during intense rainfall, smaller pipe sizes, reducing space and material costs, and a more flexible pipe routing.
Xavier: “NORMA Group’s FGR Grip pipe couplings were chosen for their high performance and easy installation – key advantages in a siphonic drainage system. No product modifications were needed, which ensured smooth supply from our facilities in Germany and the Czech Republic.”
The NORMACONNECT® FGR GRIP/GRIP pipe couplings are used to connect plain-ended metal pipes (e.g., steel, stainless steel, copper or cast iron). The metal pipe connectors come with an anchoring ring with conically stamped teeth, that indent into the pipe surface, ensuring safe and strong axial restraint.
For such a large-scale project, collaboration is key: From the beginning, Sales and Business Development worked closely with the client to understand technical and logistical needs. At the same time, Product Management supported with test reports and certifications. The Manufacturing and Supply Chain team ensured on-time production and delivery.
“Our fast responses and technical support helped us build trust with the client,” says Xavier. “We were involved early in the product selection stage, which was critical.”
Regular collaboration with project stakeholders and engineers on site helped maintain alignment throughout. “Open communication and timely feedback helped us address any issues early,” Xavier explains. “One major milestone was the successful product test before installation – proof our products work under real conditions.”
Working on a project of this scale offered unique insights. “Unlike smaller retrofitting projects, this one required early engagement and intense coordination,” says Xavier. “The quality and planning requirements were at another level.”
“Professionally, I can say that the project strengthened my expertise in managing complex infrastructure projects. Me and the entire team are proud to have contributed to something so meaningful,” he says.
The Kai Tak Sports Park in Hong Kong
The park will be a central hub for sports and culture in Hong Kong. “It’s rewarding to know NORMA Group played a part in building it. With strong teamwork, adaptability, and reliable products, we help to shape the infrastructure of tomorrow!”
