Wealthy Iraqis take up jet-skiing on the Tigris River

BAGHDAD: Lingering violence and raw sewage in the water are no deterrents for a group of wealthy, young Iraqis who spend their free time jet-skiing along the Tigris river in a burst of white foam and spray.

Unfazed by reports that everything from chemical waste to bodies are dumped into the river, young men in life vests zoom through the muddy waters as curious bystanders on the banks look on. Speedboats and the occasional water-skier also swish by.

"We impatiently wait for the weekend to practice our hobby," said Saad Haqi. "It is a nice hobby - not new in the world but perhaps new in Iraq. It attracts lots of young people."