“Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races” Taking Place Today and Tomorrow Over 100 Teams Competing in Victoria Harbour

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) and the Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association (HKCDBA) are now jointly hosting the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races at the Tsim Sha Tsui East Waterfront for today (24 June) and tomorrow (25 June). Over 160 teams from the Mainland and overseas are competing in the races in Victoria Harbour, making an impressive spectacle. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the event, Dr Pang Yiu-kai, Chairman of the HKTB, said, “After four years, the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races is the HKTB’s first international sports event since travel fully resumes in Hong Kong. The event is expected to introduce the significant customs of Hong Kong to the world, while promoting exchanges between cities within the Greater Bay Area and strengthening Hong Kong's position as a hub for international tourism events in the region.”

Mr Peter Lam, Chairman of the HKCDBA, said, “ ‘The Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Invitational Race’ has been held since 1976. It is the most historical modern dragon boat race and one of the highest professional level in the world. Many strong teams are invited to this year's invitational race, making it an exciting event. The HKCDBA is very grateful to the organiser, the Hong Kong Tourism Board, various government departments and other major supporters and sponsors. We will continue to preserve the cultural and historical traditions of dragon boat racing, bringing a festive atmosphere to the public and visitors, and at the same time actively promoting the development of local and international dragon boat racing events. " 

The two-day event consists of 17 races with over 160 teams of about 4,000 top athletes from ten countries and regions competing for various titles, including first-time participants from Poland, as well as Australia, Dubai, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, the Mainland, Macao and Hong Kong. 

There were races for ten titles today, including various championships and the 18 Districts Trophy. The eight fastest teams in the heats of the local championships also competed for the President Shield. The International Mixed Championship, the International Open Championship, the Guangdong-Hong KongMacao Greater Bay Area Championships, the Hong Kong Championship and the Hong Kong-Macao Trophy will be held tomorrow, winners of which will be awarded cash prizes of USD10,000.  

Don’t miss out the exciting races in Victoria Harbour at Tsim Sha Tsui East. Together with the Fancy Dress Competition where dragon boat athletes display their fun-loving side and the time-limited LINE FRIENDS Hello Hong Kong photo spots along the Avenue of Stars, the event will make a memorable time to kick start the exciting summer!