They will try to beat each other by showing off their abilities in different adventure sports - sea kayaking, swimming, trail running, canyoning, rope skills and orienteering - without seeking help from outsiders. More than 100 teenagers will do battle in Tai Tam Country Park today in the inaugural Bonaqua Youth Challenge, Hong Kong's first multi-sport adventure race for youths.
The event was designed to get kids away from the TV set and out of the house, and a spokeswoman for main sponsor Swire Coca-Cola Hong Kong, Akie Hara, promised it would be a challenging but enjoyable experience.
'One unique feature of the competition is we have designed the flow of the game to suit the various geographical characteristics of Tai Tam, with one rope climbing event being held right next to a waterfall,' she said. 'Last Saturday, we held a briefing during which our instructors went over the activities involved. We want to make sure everybody is aware of what they're required to do.'
She added that proper measures had been taken to ensure safety. 'Aside from our instructors, we have also hired a team of adventure race experts to be at different check points.'
Participants will compete in teams of two and in two age categories - 13-15 and 16-19 - with the winners of each category receiving a $3,000 cash prize.
Triathlete Claire Murray and Coca-Cola director Guy Bradley will host the opening handprint ceremony, while windsurfer-turned-actor Ken Wong Hop-hei will present the prizes.