Harbour Race Cancelled As Protests Continue

The organisers of the annual Habour Race announced on Friday that this year's competition has been cancelled due to "the recent social situation and the resulting uncertainties."

The event had been scheduled to take place on October 27.

The Hong Kong Amateur Swimming Association (HKASA) said in a statement that all the would-be participants affected would get a full refund for their entry, administration and time-trial fees.

It said this year's finalists will also be offered half price on entry fees for next year’s race.

"The HKASA thanks all sponsors and supporting organisations, as well as local and international swimmers for supporting the race. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused by the cancellation of the event and hope all swimmers will join us for next year’s race," said the association's president, Ronnie Wong.

More than 3,300 people from 11 countries took part in the race across Victoria Harbour last year.

A series of sporting and entertainment events have been cancelled since the extradition bill crisis erupted in June, including the Hong Kong Squash Open and the WTA Hong Kong Open tennis tournament.