HKJC backs 15th National Games with equestrian expertise and funding

01-07-2025 18:22 HKT

Attending the signing ceremony for the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Regarding the 15th National Games Competition Region were Cui Jian (back row, 3rd left); Li Shuguang (back row, 2nd left); Yeung Tak-keung (back row, 1st left); Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges (back row, 3rd right); Andrew Harding (back row, 2nd right); and Raymond Tam (back row, 1st right). The MoU was signed by Ronald Chan (front row, right) and Lan Sai (front row, left).

The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) has committed its support to three significant upcoming sporting events in China—the 15th National Games, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities, and the 9th National Special Olympic Games. The Club will provide technical expertise for equestrian competitions in Guangdong and has announced a sponsorship of HK$450 million for the Hong Kong events.

Guests attend the signing ceremony for The Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Support for the 15th National Games in the Guangdong Competition Region.

A signing ceremony took place today at the Club’s Sha Tin Clubhouse, with attendance from key officials including Guangdong Sports Bureau Director-General Cui Jian and HKJC CEO Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges. Known for its equestrian expertise, the Club will offer technical support in areas such as venue design, horse welfare, anti-doping, stable management, event operations, and community engagement. Additionally, a dedicated team will supply equipment and on-ground assistance to maintain world-class standards.

Hong Kong Jockey Club Chief Executive Officer Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges said the Club has long been a staunch supporter of major national sports events and is honoured to give its full support to the 15th National Games, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games.

Engelbrecht-Bresges emphasized the Club’s longstanding tradition of supporting major national sporting events, such as the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games. He expressed honor in contributing to the Games, which he believes will enhance equestrian sports in China and strengthen collaboration within the Greater Bay Area.

Director-General of the Sports Bureau of Guangdong Province Cui Jian (2nd right); Head of the National Games Co-ordination Office (Hong Kong) Yeung Tak-keung (1st left); Hong Kong Jockey Club Chief Executive Officer Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges (2nd left); and Club Executive Director, Corporate Affairs, Raymond Tam (1st right) posed with mascots of the 15th National Games, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games, Xiyangyang and Lerongrong.

Cui Jian commended the partnership, highlighting that the HKJC’s involvement supports the vision of hosting a "Green, Inclusive, Open, and Clean" National Games. He pointed out that Guangdong and Hong Kong are united in their commitment to national sports development and noted the potential for further collaboration in the region.

Attending the signing ceremony for the Co-operation Agreement for Equestrian Venue and Amenities of the Guangdong Huangcun Sports Training Centre were Cui Jian (back row, middle); Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges (back row, right); and Andrew Harding (back row, left). The agreement was signed by the Club’s Head of Racing Talent Training Amy Chan (front row, right) and the Director of the Guangdong Huangcun Sports Training Centre Zhao Jianxin (front row, left).

Guests attend the signing ceremony for the Cooperation Agreement for the Equestrian Venue and Amenities of the Guangdong Huangcun Sports Training Centre.

The 15th National Games, which will be co-hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao for the first time, are scheduled from November 9–21, 2025. The equestrian events will take place from November 10–19 in Shenzhen, followed by the Games for Persons with Disabilities and Special Olympics in December.

Additionally, HKJC has renewed its partnership with the Guangdong Huangcun Sports Training Centre, continuing to provide funding and management support for shared equestrian facilities. This collaboration, which began in 2015, aims to nurture elite riders for international competitions and support the growth of horse racing in China, including the upcoming opening of Conghua Racecourse in 2026.

Through these initiatives, HKJC reaffirms its commitment to advancing sports development in China and promoting greater integration within the Greater Bay Area.