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SINGAPORE: A Channel NewsAsia viewer who was at the scene of the dragon boat accident in Cambodia on Friday evening gave an eyewitness account.
Mr Joey Paraiso, who was in Cambodia to cheer the Filipino team, also sent Channel NewsAsia a series of photos of the accident and subsequent rescue efforts.
The Singapore boat capsized as the 22 men were rowing back to the starting line at the end of the 1.5-kilometre Cambodia-ASEAN Traditional Boat Race.
Five men are missing after the incident, all members of the new national dragon boat team that was formed about a year ago.
Mr Paraiso recounted what he saw.
He said: ''What I witnessed was the Singaporean team had already finished the race and was starting back to the point......for them to disembark.
"Unfortunately, during the time team players (were) getting off from the boat, the boat suddenly shook off and overturned. It happened so quickly."
He added: "The remaining players, the Singapore rowers, one by one floated and saved themselves and there were some railings that they were able to hold on.....
"All the players, I guess, were a little over-fatigued so they were not able to swim normally, so they just looked for something to hang on and the current was a bit strong.
"All the rescued players were able to meet on the platform and to account for those missing."
"All the people watching that incident were shocked, so (there was) a little commotion and panic all around the area," he added. - CNA/ir
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