About 1,200 people on Sunday joined the annual cross-harbour swim, and organisers said they hope more swimmers will take part next year as the pandemic stabilises.

Participants swam one kilometre across Victoria Harbour, from the public pier near the Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai to Tsim Sha Tsui Avenue of Stars.

The quota for this year's race was set at 1,500.

Participants had to show a negative PCR test result and take a rapid test right before the event, in addition to meeting vaccine and LeaveHomeSafe requirements.

Some of those who joined the race told RTHK they were both nervous and excited before taking to the water. They took part in either the racing or leisure group.

The men’s racing group was won by Jimmy Kwok, 18, while Athena Wong, 21, topped the women’s race.

One swimmer felt unwell and was taken to hospital.

Ronnie Wong, president of the Hong Kong China Swimming Association, said he hopes the number of swimmers next year would return to the pre-pandemic level of 4,000.

The authorities have said that more participants can be allowed to compete in sporting events as long as the local epidemic stays stable.