One missing in Dragon Boat mishap in Philippines

Manila : One person is missing and feared dead after rowing practice by an amateur Dragon Boat team went awry in the Philippine capital on Saturday, the coast guard said.

The 22 members of the Alab Sagwan Pilipinas rowing team were practising in Manila Bay before dawn when water began entering their boat, a coast guard report said.

Rescuers were able to pick up 21 of the local rowers but a 30-year-old male rower could not be found by sundown.

The cause of the accident has not been determined.

Dragon Boat racing has been gaining popularity in the Philippines in recent years with local teams winning medals in international contests.

The sport has attracted people of different ages and genders to row together despite the rigorous practice required.