- Title: HONG KONG-CROSS HARBOUR RACE Around 2,500 swimmers race across Hong Kong harbour
- Date: 18th October 2015
- Summary: VARIOUS OF SWIMMERS GETTING OUT OF WATER VICTORIA HARBOUR
- Embargoed: 2nd November 2015 12:00
- Keywords:
- Location: China
- Country: China
- Topics: General
- Reuters ID: LVA8ZVVFPGJDCWRI1IMK4EPAE7YT
- Aspect Ratio: 16:9
- Story Text: Around 2,500 swimmers raced across Hong Kong's iconic Victoria Harbour, with Brazilians winning international male and female categories.
The race, which resumed five years ago had been suspended for 33 years because of concerns about water pollution.
But the male international winner, Allan Do Carmo, said conditions were perfect for the 1.8km swim.
"Today was a very good day to swim, because it's hot and the water temperature helps and there weren't many waves. I was focussed on the finish line and the best result, and that's what I've done," he said.
Winner of the international female category, Brazilian Ana Marcela Cunha, said it was a great way to round off days of international swimming competitions in the territory.
"I am very happy about my result today. Because I had a little rest since yesterday and that was a great result. We don't just come here for fun. We come here for the competition. And I had fun and had a great result," she said.
The swimmers came from all walks of life and ranged from 12 years old to over 60.
Winner of the disabled category, Wong Kin Ming, 57, said he raced every year.
"I want to improve my time every year. But this year I had a cold so it wasn't as good as I expected but I am still proud I was able to finish," he said.
Hundreds of amateur swimmers with bright orange buoys also rose to the challenge.
The cross-harbour race was first held in 1906 when Hong Kong was still a British colony. - Copyright Holder: REUTERS
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