LAOAG CITY, Philippines – A Chinese participant in the International Cross Harbor Race in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte drowned during the event on Friday.
Tan Xian Guang, 55, a member of the Tianhe Swimming Association from Guangdong, China, was found floating by the race marshals.
Members of the Philippine Coast Guard and the police rescue team rushed the victim to the Bangui District Hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival.
Over 100 Chinese participated in the two-day event, which started in Currimao town on Wednesday.
The Cross Harbor Race is a physically demanding sports event, which requires both tactical and technical approaches in order to win.
Every year, Chinese athletes look forward to the race to promote swimming as a sport for all ages.