: Literally, in Cantonese, “Hong Kong Jockey Club” is pronounced ‘Heung1 He2ng1 Kong1 Gi1 T** (lit. “happy encounter club”). Therefore, it is said this way because “happy encounter” sound like “horse race.”
Hong Kong’s horse racing season typically runs from September to July. Races are held every Wednesday and Saturday at the Sha Tin Racecourse and every Sunday at the Happy Valley Racecourse. The season culminates in the Hong Kong International Races, a series of prestigious races held in December. Hong Kong horse racing is highly popular, with large crowds attending races and betting heavily on the outcome. The sport is also a significant contributor to Hong Kong’s economy, generating billions of dollars in revenue each year.
When is Hong Kong Horse Racing?
Hong Kong is a major hub for horse racing, with a long and storied history. The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) is the sole operator of both thoroughbred and Chinese horse racing in the city.
The HKJC’s racing calendar is divided into two seasons: the summer season (from early September to late June) and the winter season (from late June to late August). Racing is held at two racecourses: Sha Tin Racecourse and Happy Valley Racecourse.
HKJC’s Racing Calendar
The HKJC’s racing calendar is packed with events throughout the year. Some of the most notable races include:
- The Hong Kong Derby (March)
- The Queen’s Silver Jubilee Cup (May)
- The Champions Day (May or June)
- The LONGINES Hong Kong International Races (December)
In addition to these major events, the HKJC also hosts a number of other races throughout the year, including:
- Group races (races for top-class horses)
- Handicap races (races for horses of all abilities)
- Claiming races (races where horses can be bought and sold)
To view the full racing calendar for the upcoming season, please visit the HKJC’s website.
| Month | Number of Race Days |
|---|---|
| September | 10 |
| October | 10 |
| November | 10 |
| December | 10 |
| January | 10 |
| February | 8 |
| March | 10 |
| April | 10 |
| May | 10 |
| June | 10 |
| July | 10 |
| August | 10 |
Major Horse Racing Events in Hong Kong
Hong Kong’s horse racing scene is vibrant and exciting, with races taking place throughout the year. Whether you’re a seasoned racing enthusiast or new to the sport, there’s an event to suit your interests.
The Four Major Races in the Hong Kong International Races (HKIR)
- The Hong Kong Sprint (1200m)
- The Hong Kong Mile (1600m)
- The Hong Kong Cup (2000m)
- The Hong Kong Vase (2400m)
The HKIR is an annual event held in December and features some of the world’s top racehorses competing for a share of the HK$100 million prize money.
The Longines Hong Kong International Races Day
The Longines Hong Kong International Races Day is the highlight of the Hong Kong racing calendar and is held on the second Sunday of December at Sha Tin Racecourse. The day features four international races, as well as a number of other races and entertainment.
Other Notable Events
- The Audemars Piguet Queen Elizabeth II Cup (2000m) – Held in April
- The Champions & Chater Cup (2400m) – Held in May
- The Stewards’ Cup (1600m) – Held in January
| Event | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Longines Hong Kong International Races Day | Second Sunday of December | Sha Tin Racecourse |
| Audemars Piguet Queen Elizabeth II Cup | April | Sha Tin Racecourse |
| Champions & Chater Cup | May | Sha Tin Racecourse |
| Stewards’ Cup | January | Happy Valley Racecourse |
Season and Race Day Schedule
Hong Kong’s horse racing season is a year-round affair, with races held at two world-class venues: the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Happy Valley Racecourse and the Sha Tin Racecourse.
Races are held on most Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the year, with additional race days during major holidays and festivals.
Race Day Schedule
| Race Day | Start Time | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | 7:15 PM | Happy Valley Racecourse |
| Saturday | 1:00 PM | Sha Tin Racecourse |
The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) also organizes special race days throughout the year, such as the Hong Kong Derby, the Champions Mile, and the International Jockeys’ Championship.
Horse Racing in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is renowned for its thrilling horse racing scene, drawing in enthusiasts and spectators alike. The city boasts two world-class horse racing venues that host regular races throughout the year.
Horse Racing Venues in Hong Kong
- Sha Tin Racecourse: Located in the New Territories, Sha Tin Racecourse is the largest and most modern horse racing venue in Hong Kong. It features a state-of-the-art grandstand, spacious betting halls, and a 2,000-meter all-weather track.
- Happy Valley Racecourse: Situated in the heart of Hong Kong Island, Happy Valley Racecourse is known for its unique atmosphere and panoramic city views. It has a 1,650-meter turf track and a picturesque setting that attracts both locals and tourists.
Race Schedule
Horse racing events in Hong Kong are held on Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the year. The racing season typically runs from September to June, with a break during the summer months.
The race schedule is as follows:
- Wednesdays: Happy Valley Racecourse
- Saturdays: Sha Tin Racecourse
Betting and Wagering
Betting is a major component of horse racing in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Jockey Club offers a wide range of betting options, including win, place, and quinella bets.
The minimum bet amount is HK$10, and there are no maximum limits.
Attendance and Atmosphere
Horse racing events in Hong Kong attract large crowds. Sha Tin Racecourse can accommodate up to 85,000 spectators, while Happy Valley Racecourse has a capacity of 55,000.
The atmosphere at the racecourses is vibrant and energetic. Spectators can enjoy live music, food and beverage vendors, and a variety of entertainment options.
Cheers to all the racing enthusiasts who have stuck with us to the very end! We hope this article has enlightened you on the thrilling world of Hong Kong horse racing. Remember, as the sun sets on one race day, don’t fret—a new dawn of equestrian excitement awaits just around the corner. Keep an eye on our site for more updates and insights into the vibrant world of racing. Until then, we bid you farewell and wish you the best of luck in your future bets!