HONG KONG - Paddlers from various countries and regions dressed up in colorful costumes as they joined the Fancy Dress Competition of the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races on Sunday at the Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade.

The participants were among the 4,500 athletes who made up over 190 teams from 12 countries and regions that competed in 19 events, with the number of paddlers exceeding those who joined last year's races. 

Hosted by the Hong Kong Tourism Board and co-organized by the Hong Kong China Dragon Boat Association, this year's international races were held on Saturday and Sunday. 

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Photos were provided to China Daily.