The Tolo Harbour cross-harbour swimming open attracted 710 registered swimmers aged from 10 to 77 on 27 September, with the race organised by Tai Po Sports Association. The field comprised 518 men and 192 women.
The approximately 2,600-metre course started at a beach in Shuen Wan at 10.30am and finished at a water-sports centre in Tai Po. The men's champion completed it in 31 minutes 31 seconds, while the defending women's champion retained her title in 34 minutes 5 seconds.
Swimmers had to show evidence of completing an open-water race of at least 1,000 metres within the previous three years, obtain confirmation from a coach that they could compete, or pass a water test arranged for the event.
The race took place in hot, sunny conditions after a hot-weather warning, although some participants reported rough water and a strong petrol smell. Organisers said the smell might have come from rescue speedboats and that they would review the arrangements.