Derby delight: Sha Tin Racecourse comes alive for Hong Kong racing classic

The 149th BMW Hong Kong Derby concluded yesterday (Mar 22) at Sha Tin Racecourse, drawing a cosmopolitan mix of racing enthusiasts and curious visitors eager to experience one of Hong Kong’s most celebrated sporting traditions.

For many, the racecourse itself was a spectacle. Guests admired the sweeping views of the track, the elegant parade rings, and the electric atmosphere of live betting, all set against the verdant hills of the New Territories. Attendees received commemorative “Derby Caps” and took part in the “Year of the Horse Golden Lucky Draw,” with prizes including a HK$100,000 gold bar set.

Captivating the Crowd: First-Time and Regular Visitors

The Derby proved especially enchanting for first-time visitors. A Scottish tourist attending a racecourse for the first time praised the seamless organization and attentive staff, which made it easy for a novice to navigate and enjoy the races. “I hope to come again. I’ll definitely recommend it to my friends,” she said.

Mainland visitors shared the enthusiasm. Zheng from Shenzhen, returning for her third visit after enjoying her first two, brought along her friend Yang, a first-timer. They delighted in the vibrant atmosphere—from the parade rings to the buzz of live betting—while Yang commended the staff’s professionalism and warmth.

Seasoned attendees were also present. Cai and Zheng from Guangzhou, who follow the races closely, were drawn not only by their knowledge of the sport but also by the Derby’s prestige. Zheng keeps up with the Jockey Club’s updates and meticulously tracks the horses, expressing confidence in several runners this year. She also praised the Derby’s social media outreach for mainland visitors, saying, “I think your Xiaohongshu account is excellent—it keeps up with all the news.” Observing the crowd, they noted the rising number of visitors from the Mainland, highlighting the Derby’s growing appeal beyond Hong Kong. 

Adding to the festive ambience, pop star MC Cheung Tin-fu performed live, while Derby ambassador Donnie Yen Chi-tan and his wife Cissy Wang cheered on the competitors.

The 149th BMW Hong Kong Derby offered a sophisticated fusion of sport, entertainment, and culture—reaffirming Sha Tin Racecourse as an unmissable destination for both racing aficionados and first-time visitors alike.