Sha Tin Racecourse was a hub of activity and celebration on Monday as approximately 30,000 visitors gathered to mark the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Despite temperatures reaching 33 degrees Celsius, the crowd, comprising tourists and local residents, enjoyed a full day of horse racing, cultural performances, and patriotic ceremonies.
The event featured an 11-race card highlighted by the Group Three National Day Cup. Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, chairman of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, described the day as successful, with betting turnover reaching HK$1.6 billion. Although turnover showed a slight increase for the day, Engelbrecht-Bresges noted it had declined earlier in the season. He attributed some of this trend to bettors wagering smaller amounts on fewer races and pointed to a possible overcrowding of races in a short period as a contributing factor. Efforts to engage with around 500 customers were underway to better understand these patterns.
The opening ceremony attracted notable attendees including Chief Secretary Eric Chan Kwok-ki and Hua You, deputy commissioner of the Foreign Ministry’s Hong Kong office. The festivities began with a performance by the Cangzhou Acrobatic Troupe from Hebei province, whose Flagpole Acrobatics act drew acclaim for its displays of balance and strength.
Chinese operatic trio China’s Three Tenors—Dai Yuqiang, Warren Mok, and Wei Song—then performed songs such as "O Sole Mio," "I Love You, China," and "My People, My Country," rekindling a sense of national pride among the audience. The group last performed together at Sha Tin during the 70th National Day celebrations seven years ago. The occasion was officially inaugurated with the singing of the national anthem led by the tenors and accompanied by the Hong Kong Police Band.
Among the attendees were both regular racegoers and first-time visitors. Some local spectators expressed appreciation for the patriotic atmosphere rare in Hong Kong, emphasizing their participation as part of National Day celebrations. A couple attending for the fourth time said they usually attend major race meetings as Jockey Club members and placed small bets primarily for enjoyment rather than expecting a win.
Tourists also contributed to the vibrant scene. Russian visitor Gleb Kudriavtsev described the National Day race meeting as a highlight of his tour of Hong Kong, Macau, and Shenzhen. While he found the betting process complex, he expressed enthusiasm about experiencing the race and placing wagers. Similarly, Mike McCarron from the United Kingdom attended the event while visiting friends and linked his interest in horse racing to family traditions.
Mainland Chinese students studying in Hong Kong found the event both educational and entertaining. First-year Baptist University students noted the uniqueness of Hong Kong’s racing culture compared to mainland China, though they acknowledged that betting could initially seem daunting. Many took advantage of commemorative merchandise discounts offered for the anniversary.
Mainland professionals residing in Hong Kong also participated, bringing friends to experience the races and atmosphere. They highlighted the accessible nature of betting and the excitement it brought to spectating. For many, the combination of sport and national celebration created a festive environment that enhanced the significance of the holiday.