HONG KONG, Oct. 1 (Xinhua) -- More than 1,000 hikers mounted the Dragon's Back, a ridge in the southern part of Hong Kong Island, to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic of China (PRC).

The hikers waved national flags and chanted patriotic slogans during the 3.5-hour journey. When arriving at the Shek O Peak, they chorused "long live China and happy birthday."

"About 800 people registered for the hiking, but we counted more than 1,000 during the journey," Johnny Chow, organizer of the activity, said. "It was a real scorcher, but everyone made it to the top, just like our country advances steadily, overcoming all the difficulties."

Many children joined the activity with their parents. A four-year-old girl who completed the journey despite hypoglycemia told Xinhua that she wished the motherland happy birthday.

A participant surnamed Cheung said reaching the peak of the Dragon's Back was meaningful on the National Day. "Hong Kong and the mainland are a big family, and will become better and better."