Nearly thirty birdmen equipped with bizarre outfits took flight at Shiniuzhai, central China's Hunan Province, stirring the serene lake with their comical landings.

The Second National Birdman Flying Competition, held by Hunan Economic TV, drew a large crown of onlookers on Saturday.

Besides domestic contestants from around China, the event also attracted flying lovers from Burundi, Canada and Rwanda.

The birdmen took off with the help of a runway atop a ten meter high platform above the lake, the task was to fly as far as they could before landing in the water. The one with the longest flight distance and fanciest costume was named the winner.

A contestant from Hunan took the crown with a distance of 24.52 meters during the three hour competition.

The sport debuted in 1971 in Britain and has since become widely known throughout the world. Named after its host place, the International Bognor Birdman Competition has been held successfully for over 30 years by British birdmen.

Tony Hughes, winner of the 2006 Bognor competition was also invited to the event.

(CRI September 16, 2007)