[1] In 2003 Hong Kong, Chinese Taipei and Mongolia entered the bidding process as potential host cities for the 5th East Asian games.

The design makes reference to the five Olympic rings, and the sparkling fireworks symbolise the energy of athletes striving to fulfill their potential and to achieve sporting excellence.

[7] A slogan contest was held at the Asian Games in 2006 and the winning suggestion was "Be the Legend" (Chinese: 創造傳奇一刻; Jyutping: cong3 zou6 cyun4 kei4 jat1 hak1); fitting well with the ideals of athletes reaching their potential and achieving legendary victories.

[12] The ceremony was also attended by chairman of the East Asian Games planning committee Timothy Fok and heads of delegations of the nine countries.

The Cantonese version of the theme song You are the Legend was also performed for the first time by 30 Hong Kong singers including Alan Tam.

[12] For the 300-day countdown, 24 athletes were invited to sing the theme song at the Alan Tam Hacken Lee concert.

[18] In the following calendar for the 2009 East Asian Games, each blue box represents an event competition, such as a qualification round, on that day.

[19] State Councilor Liu Yandong graced the official opening ceremony on December 5, which featured an extensive firework display and a large scale music and dance performance at Hong Kong Cultural Centre section of Victoria Harbour.

Donald Tsang, Chief Executive of Hong Kong, in his speech said in part: "Through sport, we will celebrate the cultural diversity, friendship and indomitable spirit of our region.

Following this, the torch was brought into Victoria Harbour and the cauldron was lit, signalling the climax of the opening ceremony.