Hong Kong Jockey Club’s model for success outlined at Asian Racing Conference’s ‘Industry Profiles’ session

The latest session of the 35th Asian Racing Conference this afternoon at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre informed delegates that Hong Kong horseracing is looking ahead with confidence as customer participation and turnover continue to grow, while in Japan, the JRA (Japan Racing Association) is innovating to offset the effects of a “greying society”. 

In a series of video presentations, New Zealand, Malaysia, Macau and Korea also came under the spotlight during the session, which was chaired by Yu Pang Fey, President and Chief Executive of the Singapore Turf Club and CEO of the Malayan Racing Association.

Mr William A. Nader, the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Executive Director of Racing outlined the ‘Hong Kong Racing Model’, and told delegates of HKJC’s ongoing and future initiatives.

Since the 2009/10 season, the Club’s ongoing Racecourse Master Plan, with HK$3.5B spent to date and further significant investment to follow, has revamped infrastructure, with its customer-centric approach to venue re-development reaping rewards in terms of increased attendances, including new generation racegoers, and strong betting turnover.

“The defining trait of the Hong Kong Jockey Club is outstanding customer service and public confidence is imperative when you look at the wagering levels in Hong Kong,” said Mr Nader. “We are making more investment to 2017/18 in our on-going Master Plan.”

Meanwhile, HKJC’s Conghua Training Centre is being built in mainland China, and recent legislation has enabled the Club to begin commingling with overseas pools.

Mr Nader emphasised the strength of Hong Kong racing, noting that five of Hong Kong’s six international Group 1 races are established in the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities’ World’s Top 50 Group 1 Races.