Hong Kong singer and actress Charlene Choi, one half of the pop duo Twins, attends the launch ceremony of the 5th East Asian Games mascots in Hong Kong on Sunday, March 9, 2008. [Photo: Xinhua]

Thousands of residents and celebrities attended an unveiling ceremony for Dony and Ami, the mascots for the 5th East Asian Games, in Hong Kong on Sunday, Xinhua News Agency reports.

The contemporary designs incorporate elements of fire and lions plucked from the Cantonese oldies song "Below the Lion Rock."

The 2009 East Asian Games, the first international multi-sport event to be held in Hong Kong, will run from December 5 to 13 next year.

(CRI March 11, 2008)