Companies hum to tune of $100,000 in festive quiz

Some top movers and shakers found themselves literally humming to the tune of $100,000 for Operation Santa Claus at an RTHK-sponsored Christmas quiz at the Ritz-Carlton hotel.

Representatives of six firms were prepared to humiliate themselves for a good cause as they were tested on their film, music and book knowledge - and their humming skills.

Taking part were Richard Margolis of Merrill Lynch, Peter Tulloch of the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, Peter Lowe of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Jill Dodwell Groves of Jardine Matheson, John Snelgrove of A & A China Region Insurance Co, and Nick Hunsworth of Johnson Stokes & Master.

Ms Groves, who was a repeat participant, said there was no question of her not taking part again this year.

'They're very persuasive . . . it seems your career's on the line if you don't come.'

Ms Groves and her quiz partner, Mr Lowe, said they had hummed to each other over the phone to prepare for the contest. However, despite the preparation, they had to settle for second place.

Winners Mr Snelgrove and Mr Hunsworth attributed their victory to experience and quick reflexes on the buzzer. 'And we cheat when we're together!' Mr Hunsworth added.

Each company paid $25,000 to take part in the quiz, hosted by Natalie Haughton.

Graphic: TREE26GET

Graphic: SANTACGWK