The world famous Victoria Harbor of Hong Kong will welcome its first Harbor Day this Sunday with a series of fun-filled and action-packed events.

The organizer of the festival, Hong Kong Harbor Day Committee, said Wednesday that this will be the first ever Hong Kong Harbor Day, which would offer the general public a panoramic view of the harbor.

According to the organizer, the Harbor Day will begin with the "Around the Island Race," in which more than 200 yachts will race along a 26 nautical mile course around Hong Kong Island.

Following the race will be the "Harbor Day Parade," a parade of iconic Hong Kong boats ranging from the Star Ferry, harbor-working vessels to traditional Chinese junks and yachts.

The helicopter rescue mission performed by the Government Flying Services along the harbor front will be another highlight of the day, the organizer added.

Hans Olijve, chairman of the Harbor Day Organizing Committee, said, "I sincerely hope that the Hong Kong Harbor Day will give the Hong Kong people a chance to have a closer look at the harbor and help promote the appreciation of its beauty and vibrancy."

The organizer and the Hong Kong government hope this festival will become an annual event in Hong Kong to attract visitors and residents.

(Xinhua News Agency November 10, 2005)