Experience the excitement of horse racing like never before at Sha Tin Racecourse, where family-friendly attractions, modern enhancements, and a vibrant atmosphere unite to create unforgettable memories for all ages.
Sha Tin Racecourse, renowned as one of Hong Kong's top sporting venues, is set to embrace a new wave of racegoers as the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) rolls out exciting plans aimed at younger audiences. With the possibility of those under the age of 18 soon being able to partake in the excitement of live racing, this initiative illustrates HKJC’s commitment to transforming the conventional race-day experience and positioning Sha Tin as a family-friendly spot in the center of the city.
In a recent announcement, Kevin Yeung Yun-hung, the Secretary for Culture, Sports, and Tourism, revealed that officials are collaborating with the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) to consider relaxing the age restrictions at racecourses in Hong Kong. This initiative corresponds with wider efforts to promote the city as a premier destination for horse racing tourism. HKJC’s Chief Executive, Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, expressed his support for the government’s backing, calling it a “significant step” towards making racing a vital component of Hong Kong’s tourism sector. While details regarding potential changes to age limits are still confidential, there is a growing enthusiasm for the possibilities ahead.
As part of HKJC's ambitious HK$7.5 billion investment plan, efforts are underway to create a more inviting arrival experience for both existing members and newcomers. This initiative particularly focuses on engaging younger audiences—namely Generation Z and families who may not have had prior exposure to horse racing. Engelbrecht-Bresges noted, “We envision a comprehensive revamp of the tourist experience,” aiming to double tourist visitation from mainland China in the next five years. By appealing to contemporary preferences and trends, the racecourse seeks to draw in those who might typically overlook the sport.
Set to launch in the 2025-26 racing season, the revamped facilities at Sha Tin will feature a variety of attractions designed specifically for younger visitors. These will include new dining experiences, Instagram-friendly photo locations, and interactive digital experiences with the iconic racehorse Golden Sixty. This initiative draws inspiration from the successful digital upgrades at Happy Valley, including AI-powered race cards and virtual parade rings, introducing a modern touch to the racing experience that appeals to tech-savvy audiences.
In an effort to create a family-friendly atmosphere, HKJC is launching “Pony World,” a distinct infield attraction at Sha Tin, which is set to debut in December next year. Specifically designed for children, Pony World will provide pony rides, photo opportunities, and educational sessions that aim to introduce young enthusiasts to the basics of the sport. “We’ve noticed a significant interest in pony rides and photo opportunities during public events, and we are dedicated to incorporating these experiences as a fundamental part of our public offerings,” Engelbrecht-Bresges stated. For many families, this interactive experience could serve as their initial foray into the world of racing, bridging the divide between traditional observation and engaging participation.
The vision of HKJC extends far beyond simply hosting a race day; it aspires to transform horse racing into an inclusive sport and entertainment experience suitable for all age groups. This strategy represents a significant change, shifting away from the exclusivity of environments focused solely on betting and towards the creation of a lively and diverse entertainment area. Engelbrecht-Bresges highlighted, "With this approach, we're creating a distinctive, betting-free atmosphere that appeals to all attendees. It's about honoring Hong Kong racing and sports entertainment in a way that everyone—from long-time fans to newcomers—can appreciate."
This transformation aims to establish Sha Tin not merely as a racecourse but as a complete entertainment hub, attracting new audiences and reinforcing the significance of horse racing within Hong Kong's cultural tapestry. As the HKJC pursues its goals, the development of Sha Tin heralds a promising future, welcoming families and young fans to experience the excitement of horse racing from a fresh perspective.
