Hong Kong's Betting Culture: A Guide to Horse Racing and Betting

Hong Kong has a long and rich history of horse racing, a tradition that dates back to the colonial era. Over the past century, it has evolved into a world-class international event. On race days, betting branches are packed, and racecourses are filled, demonstrating the city's passion for the sport. Before diving straight into the excitement of Hong Kong's horse racing scene, read on to learn about the vibrant culture of horse racing and the race schedule.

If you seek to experience the enthusiasm of the races more conveniently, consider staying at The V Happy Valley. The serviced apartment is only a 10-minute walk away from the Happy Valley Racecourse.

The Culture of Horse Racing in Hong Kong

Hong Kong's horse racing culture has deep historical roots. The sport was introduced by the British in 1840, with the first race taking place in Happy Valley in 1846, marking the beginning of the city's horse racing history. Initially, races were mostly amateur events, with enthusiastic riders serving as jockeys. However, as time passed, the sport gained popularity. It attracted increasing public attention, with its betting turnover becoming 10 times more than the average of its counterparts around the globe.

In 1884, the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) was officially established to organise and manage races, leading horse racing to become a professional sport. The HKJC oversees races, sets regulations, manages betting activities, and actively promotes the development of horse racing while contributing to charitable causes. Over time, a unique horse racing and betting culture has been formed.

Central to the horse racing culture in Hong Kong, Happy Valley Racecourse offers a spectrum of experiences designed to immerse patrons in the thrill of the sport, which transcends every level of life. Entry to the public areas, including the Grandstand and Betting Hall, is conveniently accessed with a simple tap of an Octopus card for a HK$10 admission fee while free admission is offered after 3:30 P.M. for day races, 6:30 P.M. for twilight races, and 9.15 P.M. for night races, creating an accessible entry point for casual observers and seasoned punters alike.

The public areas offer varied ways to experience the races and bet. The Betting Hall provides different levels to attract all types of bettors: tech-equipped floors with real-time info, large screens for immersive viewing, balcony views overlooking the track, and the Outdoor Forecourt for close-up action. Betting options are flexible, with bettors expected to make a minimum bet of HK$10 per race, creating a lively and comprehensive horse racing experience.

Strategic bettors gravitate towards the Track View Terrace, a space favourable to focused analysis. The panoramic view allows for close observation of the race, while the provided writing desks facilitate meticulous planning. They meticulously review form guides and odds, engaging in calculated decision-making.

Racegoers and bettors seeking a more relaxed and vibrant environment to observe the races typically secure a spot with comfortable outdoor seating overlooking the track at the Beer Garden, which is located in the Forecourt. It provides a lively atmosphere enhanced by live music while offering various light food and beverage options, such as hot dogs, fish and chips, and cold beer. This balances the energetic and tense atmosphere of the public stands with a degree of comfort and convenience, attracting friends and casual bettors to socialise in groups.

If you want to experience the thrill of horse racing while savouring gourmet foods, you can watch the races in action from Stable Bend Terrace, where a variety of western BBQ buffet choices, such as Satay sticks and pork ribs, is served along with unlimited access to both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. With a panoramic view of the Happy Valley Racecourse, this outdoor restaurant is one of the go-to dining spots among race fans.

Hong Kong Horse Racing Calendar

During the racing season, the Hong Kong Jockey Club hosts three types of race meetings per week: day races on weekends, twilight races on weekends, and night races on weekdays. Generally, unless there are public holidays or special venue maintenance, day races take place on Sundays at Sha Tin Racecourse, starting around 1:00 PM and ending at approximately 6:00 PM. Meanwhile, Twilight races take place in Sha Tin Racecourse, typically starting at 4:00 P.M. and ending either at 8:50 P.M. or 9:30 P.M. Night Races, a unique spectacle that makes Hong Kong one of the few places in the world to offer regular midweek evening horse racing, are held on Wednesdays at Happy Valley Racecourse, commencing at 7:00 PM and concluding around 11:00 PM.

Exact race schedules may vary depending on the number of races and other factors. For the latest race-day details, visit the Hong Kong Jockey Club's official website or check with local off-course betting branches for up-to-date information.

Off-Course Betting Branches in Hong Kong

Another great option is to watch live broadcasts at off-course betting branches across Hong Kong. These locations allow bettors to closely monitor horse conditions and fluctuating odds and place their bets accordingly. For those who cannot attend the races in person, visiting these off-course betting centres is an excellent alternative.

Off-Course Betting Branch Hours During Race Days

The Hong Kong Jockey Club's off-course betting branches operate on both racedays and non-racedays, with longer hours on racedays. Below are the typical opening hours during local race events:

*Please note that opening hours may vary due to live broadcasts of football matches or overseas horse racing events. For exact hours, visit the nearest off-course betting branch or check the Hong Kong Jockey Club's website.

The V Serviced Apartments – Your Gateway to Horse Racing in Hong Kong

If you want to experience the thrill of the races right at the heart of the action, consider staying at The V Happy Valley, located just a 10-minute walk from the Happy Valley Racecourse. For more information about our serviced apartment's rental options, feel free to call 3602 2388 or fill out our form for enquiries.