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A place of extremes, Hong Kong is a major global centre for finance and business yet manages to have areas of natural beauty and a wealth of leisure attractions. If there is one pastime enjoyed by residents and visitors which stands above all others it is horseracing and the city has two great racecourses to choose from.
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One of these is located in Happy Valley right in the heart of Hong Kong Island and the course forms a haven of green framed on all sides by skyscrapers.
Conveniently placed then for a break from the stresses of everyday city life, Happy Valley racing is valued more as a integral part of the history, culture & life of Hong Kong than as any simple leisure pursuit.
Happy Valley racing has taken place since 1845 and as the city grew around it, the venue became ever more important to the growing population and stands proud today within one of the most populated areas of the world.
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The track at Happy Valley Racecourse is tight which makes for thrilling races and the electric atmosphere is enhanced by the high viewing positions, more reminiscent of a Roman amphitheatre than any sedate sporting venue.
In Hong Kong the racing season starts in September and finished in June. Races are split between the two venues, Happy Valley and Sha Tin, which is located in the New Territories. Sometimes there are weekend races, but these are normally held in Sha Tin with Happy Valley Racing fixtures normally held on Wednesday evenings.
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Racing in the evening makes it all the more special and the floodlit course, set against the buzz of the city and the night sky, is presented at its dazzling best.
An integral part of the popularity of Happy Valley racing is the betting. Tote betting on horses is the only legal form of gambling allowed in Hong Kong and what the people of the city lack in betting options they more than make up for in how much they spend on this one.
Since tote betting is pari-mutuel the value of the returns is dependent on the size of the overall pot and so huge wins are possible. It is said that the value of the Tote in a single night in Hong Kong is greater than that staked over a year in most western courses.
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There are various options for racegoers to enjoy Happy Valley racing within the ground. A central feature is the Living Edge, a facility which contains four zones, each with a different race day ambience.
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Live race viewing is available on the Balcony, while for those who enjoy the more social aspect of the occasion there is the Hall and the Media Hall, both of which provide access to interactive screens and facilities for betting.
A further zone, the Loge is a more exclusive and private way to experience the races. There is also a large screen over the track on which to catch up on all the action and race information.
Horseracing, for many, is an opportunity to dine out in style and there are hospitality packages designed for the purpose. The flagship facility is the Moon Koon Restaurant in which the best of Chinese cuisine is available in a set meal package or chosen from the a la carte menu. The Wing is a superb function space which can cater for up to 60 guests, ideal for a corporate event or private celebration.
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Private boxes offer a further stylish and sophisticated option and for those who prefer a more informal approach there is Stable Bend Terrace, in which great race views are complemented by barbecue dining in the open air.
This website is operated by Websitebrokers Limited and is not affiliated to any one racecourse or group of racecourses. |
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