HK raises sails to flag maritime heritage

Hong Kong

GLASS towers bristling on Hong Kong's skyline may be its most recognisable feature but the sight of yachts from the prestigious Volvo Ocean Race in its harbours shows the island metropolis is reasserting its maritime heritage.

Hong Kong's debut as a host of the Volvo race, which called at the city in January for the first time in its 44-year history, caused excitement among local enthusiasts who said that it is about time that the city showed off its nautical pedigree.

The former British colony has amassed riches with the help of its busy ports, with huge container ships churning its waters past the tiny craft of local fishermen and gleami…