Jockey Club’s $14b upgrade fuels record-breaking racing season

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The 2024/25 racing season drew a record 195,786 mainland visitors to Happy Valley and Sha Tin racecourses, with international events like the LONGINES International Races and FWD Champions Day creating new tourism momentum through targeted overseas promotions.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club partnered with the Hong Kong Tourism Board to respond to Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu’s policy address, surging overseas racing tour arrivals by 130 percent to nearly 1,400 visitors. 

These tours, averaging one week, combine race viewing with city sightseeing and unique experiences, driving retail, dining and hospitality spending estimated at HK$35 million from high-end participants alone, plus hotel and airline revenue.

Over HK$10 billion has been invested in Sha Tin and Happy Valley upgrades in the past year, with another HK$4 billion planned, including enhanced dining at venues like Champion Circle. 

Australian tours sold out early this season, reflecting strong demand.

Australian Racing Tours’ John McGauran, with 15 years of organizing Hong Kong trips, brought 120 owners and breeders this year, each spending AUD$5,000–10,000. 

His firm has already fielded heavy inquiries for next season. Fellow operator Eliza O’Sullivan noted three-year growth, with seven- to 10-day stays averaging HK$40,000 per person, drawn to Causeway Bay’s shopping convenience.

Veteran horse owner Rikki McDonald returned for his 30th visit, leading 97 travelers, including 30 percent repeats, scouting industry collaborations. 

Newcomer Ashleigh praised hospitality, budgeting HK$20,000–25,000 for dining and shopping.

Horse performance entices fans like Brittany Taylor, inspired by star racehorse Ka Ying Rising performance in Australia, to attend live. 

The UK’s William Hopkins sees Hong Kong’s urban track locations as a unique draw, urging more overseas horse participation for global appeal via social media. 

Darryl Karp called the city-surrounded courses unparalleled worldwide.