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An estimated 20,000 people enjoyed the London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival 2008, at the London Regatta Centre in The Docklands on June 8. The event was organised by the London Chinatown Chinese Association, the London Chinatown Lions Club, Hong Kong Executives Club and Spectrum Radio Chinese Community Network and supported by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London.
As well as a full day of racing on the Thames involving more than 40 teams, the event raised money for victims of the Sichuan earthquake The UK's Chinese communities have raised more than ?1.3m (HK$20.2 million)for the appeal. Local Chinese community organisations and a school building project in rural China will also benefit from the event’s fundraising efforts.
Teams made up of rowers from corporate organisations and public sector organisations – many in fancy dress – competed in heats along the 250m course. The final race was won by recruitment consultants Neumann International. There were also two cup races: Neumann International won the Bank of East Asia cup, and law firm Clifford Chance won the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office cup. Club team Raging Dragons won the final club race.
Director General of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office London Ms Sarah Wu said, "We at the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, London are delighted to have been the principal sponsor of this year's London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival, one of the most successful we have had in the city. With so many teams and visitors, the festival was the biggest yet, and it was clear that all who came had a great time. I congratulate the organisers who have made such a success of this event. It was a great example of our people's hard work, vision, and can-do spirit. I hope that in the future the London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival will become one of London's signature events."
For spectators – and rowers between races – there was an afternoon of cultural performances including lion dancing, dragons, kung fu and live music, and food, market stalls and children's play area.
Public information about the London Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival 2008 is available at www.lclc.co.uk
Ends/Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Issued at HKT 15:15
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