FINA Puts Spotlight On Open-Water Swimming Events After Hong Kong Death

The Int'l Swimming Federation (FINA) announced that Hong Kong's cross-harbor swim "is under review along with future open water events globally after the death of a swimmer at the weekend," according to the AFP. A 46-year-old man died "after being pulled unconscious from the water by a rescue boat near the finish line at Quarry Bay Park." FINA is now "working closely" with race organizers, the Hong Kong Amateur Swimming Association, and other groups responsible for similar events around the world. FINA said, "We will be conducting a thorough review of the incident and the overall safety and organization of future outdoor mass participation events." A race spokesperson said that a 59-year-old woman "was also pulled out of the water unconscious and is in hospital in intensive care" (AFP, 10/18).