SPORT AND RECREATION
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pool in Hong Kong and it was built at the Jockey Club's expense, especially for the benefit of under-privileged children. Although the pool opened too late in the season to be really popular, the number of winter-bathers made it plain that the pool will be one of Hong Kong's major attractions for its local residents. The pool is designed to cater for everyone from the expert swimmer to the family party with small children, since it provides three pools: one main swimming-pool, a smaller pool for children, and a paddling-pool for infants,, as well as a public stand and cafeteria. There were also seven licensed club swimming pools in the Colony in 1957.
Water-skiing continued to attract more and more enthusiasts who, in addition to straight-forward skiing, were going in for ski-jumping. Inevitably, one of the keenest water-skiers skied round the Island. A second branch of water-sports is skin-diving; more and more swimmers were donning face-masks and under-water breath- ing equipment during the year, whilst small groups were also venturing into deeper water after big fish. Deep-water angling also had its local following.
PARKS, PLAYGROUNDS AND OTHER AMENITIES
The development of parks, playgrounds and other ameni- ties is one of the responsibilities of the Urban Council, working through the Urban Services Department. These amenities include the fine beaches on the south side of the Island, as well as the walks and look-outs on the hills above the Harbour. Apart from developing these natural attrac- tions, the Urban Council devotes much attention to the development of playgrounds, gardens and other small proj- ects designed to beautify the city itself.
The beaches are patronized by thousands who come from the city, walking or riding in cars and buses. From April to November, during the main bathing season, the more popular beaches are manned by life-guards, including