The first-day session of the Olympic equestrian events competition ran smoothly, said Hong Kong Equestrian Company Chief Executive Officer W K Lam in Hong Kong Saturday.

In an interview with reporters, Lam said although some spectators are not so familiar with the sport, they were thrilled with the horses' movements and the venue itself.

He believed spectators' interest will be heightened as the coming competitions will grow ever more exciting.

Two minor incidents occurred at the Shatin Equestrian Venue Saturday, Lam said that over 10,000 spectators generally abided by the rules, but he expressed regret over two protestors' deliberate violation of the rules and disturbed other people.

One protestor tried to display a banned flag while the other shouted human rights slogans in the venue. They were taken out of the venue by security guards.

While saying this morning's competition was in perfect order, Chief Police Superintendent David Ng urged the public to arrive at the venue early for security check up and not to bring banned items.

He said that there have been no intelligent reports so far on possible terror attacks on Hong Kong, adding that the Police have the experience and are capable of tackling any emergencies.

Cindy Law, assistant commissioner of Transport, said the shuttle-bus service for the equestrian venue has been sufficient and operated well on Saturday.

(Xinhua News Agency August 10, 2008)