Rowers power through downpours at Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival after rainstorm warning
Thousands from around the world gather to compete in city’s iconic Victoria Harbour, as food trucks and man-made beach entice spectators on sidelines
Paddlers and spectators braved heavy rain on Friday to make a splash on the first day of the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival.
More than 4,500 rowers from 15 countries were set to hit the water over the weekend for the annual three-day event, according to organiser the Hong Kong Tourism Board.
And while 160 teams face off in Victoria Harbour, their supporters are taking in the action from a man-made beach set up on the Central harbourfront, where 14 food trucks will keep stomachs full.
However, the number watching this year was projected to drop 10 to 20 per cent on last year’s figure, largely due to a wet weather forecast. About 80,000 people were expected in total, the tourism board said.
The Hong Kong Observatory issued an amber rainstorm warning on Friday, and did not lift it until four hours after the races started at noon. The signal indicates heavy rain of more than 30mm has fallen in an hour or is expected to across the city.