Hong Kong’s Chief Executive is doubling down on the government’s indication that it would support horse racing tourism to further encourage visitation to the city.
John Lee on Sunday helped kick off the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s race season, attending the commemoration at the Sha Tin Racecourse.
The top official noted that the government plans to work together with the HKJC in creating sports tourism experiences that can draw in more visitors on race days, themed events and for performances.
The HKJC has been steadily developing horse racing both in the SAR and in the region, as it aims to commence regular racing at its Conghua Racecourse in Guangzhou by October of 2026. In its annual report, the group noted that ‘we envision the integrated triangle of Conghua, Happy Valley and Sha Tin will evolve into a center of excellence for the Greater Bay Area. This strategic network will support the National Equine Industry Development Plan by fostering a premium equine sector in the Mainland’.
The group notes that it is ‘aims to cultivate horse ownership interest on the Mainland and strengthen our brand presence there’.
The synergy is facilitated by owners’ ability to bring move horses between Conghua and Hong Kong without undergoing a quarantine period, allowing them to participate in races on both sides of the border.
While the Hong Kong races can be wagered on, the future races in mainland China will not.
Aside from its horse racing focus, the HKJC is also keenly awaiting legislation to allow it to open up to basketball betting, a move that will be costly for it in the short term but can provide strong benefits in the long run.
