First 1km Dragon Boat Race in Hong Kong

Organisers of the Laracy Gall Lamma International Dragon Boat Festival 2009, also known as the Lamma 500, being staged this weekend (10th May) at Tai Wan To Beach, Yung Shu Wan, Lamma Island, Hong Kong, have confirmed that a special 1km dragon boat race will be held during the Festival.

"We've never heard of a one kilometre dragon boat race being staged in Hong Kong," said Tournament Director Brad Tarr.

"The Lamma 500, at 500 metres, is the most challenging race series in Hong Kong and attracts the most competitive teams in the territory.

"We had some interest in the idea of a one kilometre race from teams, and the gruelling distance is in keeping with the athletic nature of the event, so we'll give it a try and see which team is the first top dog at the distance."

Up to 40 dragon boat teams are expected to compete in the full days racing schedule at the Laracy Gall Lamma 500 races in Men's, Women's and Mixed divisions, in what is the third annual staging of the event.

The one kilometre exhibition race will be held at lunchtime while races at the Lamma 400 begin at 9am and run through to the finals around 4.30pm.

Entry for spectators is free, and food and drinks are available at the beach. There is a regular ferry service from Central Pier 4 to Yung Shu Wan throughout the day. Junk mooring is also free of charge and boats are advised to arrive early.

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