Happy Valley Racecourse
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Happy Valley Racecourse - by Minghong (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Description
The Happy Valley Racecourse is the most central of the 2 horse racing venues in Hong Kong (the other being in Sha Tin) and it holds races on Wednesday evenings from September to end June / early July. Its first incarnation goes back to 1845 when the area was swampland. Originally, the races were organised for the British people, but they quickly became (very) popular with the Chinese residents. The races are organised by the Hong Kong Jockey Club and the inner field contains various sporting facilities such as football, hockey and rugby fields as well as a 1.3km asphalted running track.
Access & Transport
The Happy Valley tram line goes around the Racecourse which is also a 10' walk from Causeway Bay MTR station. Bus is also an option but traffic will be slower on race evenings.
Instructions & Recommendations
No children are permitted so keep that in mind and the races are only on Wednesday evenings - best to double check a few days before as they sometimes get rescheduled to the Sha Tin racecourse. The entry fee is low (HK$10) but you will probably end up spending more if you want to gamble on a few races - which makes horse racing more entertaining for most people.
Environmental & Social
Some obvious animal rights issues with the activity. In addition, gambling is often a tax on the poorest and breeds social issues
Conclusion
The races at Happy Valley are a cultural feature in Hong Kong and make for a fun evening out in a group. Some will like it better with a bit of gambling sprinkled on it. On a non-race day, this is a good place for a run on the inner field track.
Key positive
Quite centrally located with direct tram access
Impressive backdrop
Key negative
Less interesting for non-gamblers
Suitability
Only adults are permitted. Wheelchair access possible.
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:2h 30m
Start of Season 1:Sep, 01
MONDAY -
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WEDNESDAY18:30 - 23:00
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FRIDAY -
SATURDAY -
SUNDAY -
Start of Season 2:Jul, 01
MONDAY -
TUESDAY -
WEDNESDAY -
THURSDAY -
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