"HK Jockey Club Drives Horse Racing Growth in Mainland China"

The Hong Kong Jockey Club is establishing itself as a fundamental player in what may be a groundbreaking period for horse racing in mainland China. Chief Executive Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges contends that the initiatives from the Jockey Club could provide a significant boost to the area, as China makes progress towards creating a strong horse racing and breeding sector. This strategy supports China's National Equine Industry Development Plan (2020-2025), which aims to improve racing standards and eventually launch a pilot horse racing lottery. The advancement of racing and breeding infrastructure at Conghua Racecourse underscores the tremendous potential of this initiative.

Conghua Racecourse is central to these aspirations, yet the Jockey Club's impact reaches far beyond, assisting Chinese officials in improving integrity, horse welfare, and disease management standards. The development plan proposes a pilot racing system that would be incorporated into the current China Sports Lottery structure—a system that is presently centered around football lotteries and various other games. If horse racing were to become part of this setup, the potential for unprecedented growth in the sport could be realized.

Engelbrecht-Bresges emphasizes that integrity is a primary concern, a vital aspect necessary for maintaining the credibility of horse racing. He notes the interest shown by high-ranking officials from the mainland, who are eager to learn about Hong Kong's stringent integrity management and apprentice training programs. The Jockey Club has successfully trained approximately 800 individuals through its vocational institute, generating significant employment opportunities along the way. These collaborative initiatives are just the beginning of a broader effort, with the club dedicated to providing training and technical support to establish a strong foundation in mainland China.

As equestrian activities grow throughout the mainland, highlighted by the increase in riding schools from 1,000 to over 8,000, the need for professional standards in horse racing and veterinary care has become more evident than ever. In June, the Hong Kong Jockey Club inaugurated a Horse Racing Multi-Function Room at the Guangdong Vocational Institute of Sport, establishing a foundation for China’s dual-curriculum sports training program in horse racing. This progressive initiative demonstrates a commitment to incorporating world-class standards into China’s emerging racing sector.

An important milestone is on the horizon with the forthcoming quarantine facility in Conghua, expected to be operational by 2027. This facility will aid in the export of horses from Hong Kong to China, establishing a pathway for elite equestrian and thoroughbred horses to participate in races at renowned locations such as Sha Tin, Happy Valley, and Conghua itself. The development of a breeding industry within mainland China may follow, potentially resulting in regular auctions, collaborations with key industry players, and a transformation of the racing market. Engelbrecht-Bresges envisions a vibrant future where the Jockey Club and its partners play a significant role in the evolution of horse racing in China.

In response to the increasing interest in horse racing within China, the Jockey Club is planning to introduce weekly entertainment and equestrian events at Conghua, scheduled to commence in April 2026. Engelbrecht-Bresges has alluded to the development of a state-of-the-art visitor center, which aims to transform the Conghua Racecourse into a year-round destination that immerses visitors in the horse racing experience. By fostering an environment that integrates sports with economic and tourism opportunities, the Jockey Club aspires to establish Conghua as a top-tier horse racing venue, appealing to both local fans and an expanding global audience.