This one is more legit http://www.joinmarriottrewards.com/airchina/en/?enrlcode=AN10#register because anyone can join Air China. Downside is, it takes 12 nights to maintain status on this one, whereas the HSBC offer you posted requires only 8 stays.
Even if your not planning on maintaining the status, there are plenty of folks who booked stays at the Ritz Carlton Battery Park during the expedia.ca bonanza. Use this promo to get instant gold status, and enjoy free wifi, complimentary access to the "concierge floor" and late check out. On the other hand, it may be worth your while to sign up for the currect Ritz Carlton Rewards program, which is offering a free stay at a tier1-3 hotel, after two qualifying stays with Ritz.
