Thousands brave the heat to take part in Sai Kung dragon boat races
Thousands brave soaring temperatures to pay their homage to historic ritual
Soaring temperatures and an algal bloom were not enough to keep thousands of paddlers and spectators away from the city's famed dragon boat festivities.
Races took place across the city to mark the Tuen Ng Festival, a ritual that has roots stretching back more than 2,000 years.
In Sai Kung, the smell of sunscreen and the sea breeze infused the promenade as crowds thronged to the Dragon Boat Racing Gala in temperatures of up to 34 degrees Celsius.
About 3,000 paddlers from 180 crews - ranging from established local clubs to novice university teams - vied for glory in 35 events under blue skies.
While the crowds were in a festive mood, dining on roast pig and enjoying lion dances, the competitors were deadly serious. Many had trained intensely since the season began in March.
Izzy Siu, captain of the Sai Kung-based Aguaholics paddle club, said a friendly rivalry had developed between teams made up of expatriates and those consisting of locals from Sai Kung.
He said the sport, once dominated by rich clubs, had grown thanks to an influx of new teams. "As the sport becomes more accessible, it is also getting bigger and more popular," Siu said.