The Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races launched its two-day competition on Saturday (June 7) along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, drawing a record-breaking participation of over 4,500 athletes from 190 teams across 12 countries and regions.

This year's event features debut appearances from Qatar and Egypt alongside returning competitors from mainland China, Thailand, and other traditional dragon boat racing nations.

Organizers have transformed this year's competition into a full-fledged carnival, introducing a new "Beer Garden" to enhance the festive atmosphere.

The signature 500-meter Victoria Harbour course - renowned for its challenging open-water conditions and stunning harbor views - tested competitors' skills under intense conditions.

"The waves here are much stronger than our usual training conditions," shared a mainland Chinese team member, noting how the harbor's choppy waters sent stinging sprays across paddlers' faces.

Local women's team "North Sea Dragon" described the course as particularly gruelling, with team members typically hitting exhaustion at the 300-meter mark before mustering their final reserves of strength.

Qatar's first-time competitors expressed awe at competing in what they called "one of the world's premier dragon boat events," praising Hong Kong's vibrant racing atmosphere.

Despite the Observatory issuing a Very Hot Weather Warning with temperatures reaching 33°C, teams from hotter climates like Qatar and Africa noted Hong Kong's humid conditions presented unique challenges, though they welcomed the occasional breeze. Many international participants plan to extend their stay for tourism after competitions conclude.

The expanded 2025 edition continues tomorrow. Organizers anticipate even larger crowds as the carnival elements attract both racing enthusiasts and casual spectators to the harborfront festivities.

(Marco Lam)

Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races kick off with record participation