The Hong Kong International Races are one of the most prominent events in the Asian Sports calendar and one of the biggest and most exciting meetings in the horse racing world.
Without a doubt a thrilling day not to be missed for horse-racing enthusiasts, and even if you are not a horse-racing fan, the electrifying atmosphere will give you a great introduction to one of Hong Kong's favourite past times.
Longines is the official sponsor and timekeeper of this year's races, which take place on the second Sunday in December at the Sha Tin Race Course.
The Hong Kong International Races are loaded with excitement as befits the world's top racehorses and jockeys, the whopping HK$93 million purse which is at stake, and not to mention the incomparable prestige of winning a coveted group 1 race.
The Races
Four International Group 1 races take place at this meeting at the Sha Tin Racecourse:
Hong Kong International Races | ||
| Race | Purse | Distance |
| Hong Kong Cup | HK 28 million | 2,000 metres |
| Hong Kong Mile | HK 25 million | 1,600 metres |
| Hong Kong Sprint | HK 20 million | 1,200 metres |
| Hong Kong Vase | HK 20 million | 2,400 metres |
Getting to the Sha Tin Racecourse
The Sha Tin Race Course is located in the New Territories, the easiest way to get there is with the MTR East Rail line, the racecourse has its own dedicated station.
It will take you approximately 40-45 minutes from Central and 25-30 minutes from Tsim Sha Tsui and you can pay with the handy Octopus Card.
- From Central or Tsim Sha Tsui, take the Red Tsuen Wan Line (Red) to Mong Kok
- At Mong Kok change to the Kwun Tong Line (Green) to Kowloon Tong
- At Kowloon Tong change to the East Rail Line (Light Blue)
- Take the East Rail Line to Racecourse Station. Racecourse Station is only operational on race days.
2019 Hong Kong International Races
When?: December 8, 2019 - 12:00 - 6:00 pm
Where?: Sha Tin Race Course MTR: Sha Tin
How Much?: General Admission at Public Enclosure HK10 or Members' Enclosure with Tourist Badge HK190 (must bring passport)
More Info: Hong Kong Jockey Club
Hong Kong International Races with the "Come Horseracing Tour"
This is a very popular option, and is offered exclusively to tourists. Everything is taken care of, including the transport to/from the race track and several designated hotels in town and a Chinese/Western buffet dinner and drinks.
You get to watch the races from the Members' Boxes, and you have access to the betting halls.
They will also bring you around in between races for a close look at the paddock and a tour of the winning post.
This is a very fun option where you join other fellow visitors and everyone learns together in a very lively atmosphere how the betting process works, to place a few bets (you get a HK 30 voucher to get you stated!) and whether you win or lose is a super fun and enjoyable day out.
Dress for the Members' areas is smart casual. Although this isn't Ascot, please note that there is no denim, shorts, sneakers or flip-flops allowed.
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