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Hong Kong is not a place which does things by half. One of the world’s great financial centres and also among the most populated, it is renowned for its unique cultural fusion of all the western and eastern influences which have dominated its history. In such a vibrant corporate environment leisure opportunities are taken very seriously and there are many natural, cultural and sporting attractions for visitors and residents to enjoy. Top of that list is horseracing, and there are two world class courses to choose from, Happy Valley which is located in the heart of Hong Kong Island and Sha Tin racing which takes place in the region of the same name in the New Territories.
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More than any other activity the people of Hong Kong have taken horseracing to their hearts and turn out in huge numbers to experience the incredible spectacle of world class racing on show at both courses.
Happy Valley is the original Hong Kong course, hosting races since 1845. A huge and impressive development, it was not big enough to cope with demand and is restricted in space by the skyscrapers which grew up around it.
Sha Tin is therefore the larger of the two and offers an incredible racing experience within the more rural area of the New Territories. Sha Tin racing is held primarily at the weekends and can be accessed easily via its own station on the Kowloon Canton Railway.
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Built in 1978, the course underwent significant improvements and expansion and reopened in 2007 to great acclaim. In its opening day the Hong Kong Jockey Club collected bets totalling US$106 million, giving some indication of the demand for the upgraded facilities which included raising the capacity from 35,000 to 85,000.
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No less than 474 races are held each year at Sha Tin, on two tracks; a turf track within which is an all weather dirt track. The course also comprises Penfold Park at its centre, a popular local attraction.
There is a Public Stand and Member Stand in which to enjoy Sha Tin racing. Admission into the Public Stand costs HK$10 and visitors to Hong Kong who are staying less than 21 days can purchase a member guest badge which permits access to the Member Stand. Visitors can also take advantage of a race day package as part of a Come Horseracing Tour. This comprises an admission badge and buffet dining within the Visitor’s Box. The tours represent an excellent way for visitors to Hong Kong to sample some of the culture of the city and the incredible racing spectacle so richly enjoyed by the populace.
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Racing is held from September to June and the main events of international standing include the HK Sprint, HK Mile, HK Cup and HK Vase. Whichever event is attended the environment and hospitality on offer are as impressive as the Sha Tin racing.
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Dining options are extensive with quick dining options including Sprinter for a self-service buffet, Mezza One which comprises 16 different stalls serving Asian cuisine, the Sushi Bar, and Bon Appétit where high class fast food is served.
For more leisurely race day dining at Sha Tin racing there is Pak Sing Restaurant, in which the great food is complemented by outstanding race views. Exclusive options for private parties and corporate dining include the Wing, a suite called Jun Hui Ting and a selection of private boxes which can cater for guest numbers between 10 and 200. There are superb bar and lounge options too and many other facilities in which to enjoy the racing, such as the Media Hall in which the racing and betting can be followed on screens.
This website is operated by Websitebrokers Limited and is not affiliated to any one racecourse or group of racecourses. |
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