The annual "Lucky January 1" horse racing event kicked off at Sha Tin Racecourse on New Year's Day, drawing record crowds and substantial wagering totals. The Hong Kong Jockey Club reported nearly 42,756 attendees, the highest since 2019, including 4,120 mainland tourists, nearly double from last year. The overall total betting reached over HKD 16.4 billion.
Despite intermittent light rain, the racecourse was vibrant with excitement, as both locals and visitors entered to embrace the festive atmosphere. Many attendees aimed not just to wager but to enjoy the lively New Year spirit. For some, like Mr. Yeung, the event was about luck. "Hope for good luck; I'm very happy today," he said, celebrating his wins from two races.
According to reports, this year's New Year event featured 11 races and various attractions, including special treats and entertainment. The first race started at 12:30 PM, with public entry before 3:30 PM rewarded with free "Lucky Tote Bags." The Hong Kong Jockey Club provided various food options for guests, including international delicacies, enhancing the overall experience.
Mr. Wang, a tourist from Xiamen, expressed excitement about his first visit to the racecourse. "The atmosphere was very good; we felt very excited watching the races," he stated. His enthusiasm mirrored the sentiments of many, who found the event captivating.
Visitors also included Mr. Zhao from Shenzhen, who shared, "We come to experience the atmosphere more than anything." He noted his one-day trip to Hong Kong coincided with the event, adding to the experience of celebrating the New Year.
Government officials have recognized the significance of horse racing events, reflecting its growing popularity among tourists. The Jockey Club's CEO, Mr. Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, forecasts significant growth, predicting attendance from mainland tourists will increase significantly by 2030.
With the day’s end drawing near, the excitement continued, boosted by stories of wins and festive interactions among guests. The Jockey Club has created not just races but experiences aimed at making horse racing more appealing to both locals and tourists alike.
The success of this year’s New Year's Day horse racing continues to highlight the event's role as not just entertainment but also as a catalyst for tourism and economic activity within Hong Kong. It appears to be setting the stage for future growth and interaction among horse racing enthusiasts both locally and from abroad.