Situated at China's southeastern coastline, Hong Kong has a population of 6.9 million and a total area of 1,103 square kilometers, which consists of the Hong Kong Island, the Kowloon Peninsula, the New Territories and 262 outlying islands.

The site Hong Kong programmed for staging the cross-country eventing of the 2008 Olympic equestrian sport. [BOCOG]

Hong Kong features a sub-tropical climate. Temperatures can drop below 10 degrees Celsius in winter and exceed 31 degrees Celsius in summer.

The Equestrian events

All circles in Hong Kong were delighted at July 8's announcement that Hong Kong would co-host the equestrian events of the 2008 Olympic Games. Local authorities had pledged to provide the utmost guarantee of facilities for the success of the Olympic equestrian events.

The Equestrian events will be held at the Hong Kong Sports Institute and Penfold Park in Shatin, Beas River Country Club and part of the adjacent Hong Kong Golf Club.

Hong Kong has in place world-class equine care facilities and medical services for horses, and a group of professionals in the Equestrian events. Hong Kong also has recognized quarantine protocol arrangements with many countries. Besides, Hong Kong's Equestrian sport for riders with disabilities is well-established and takes a leading position in Asia.