There are few places in the world which can rival Hong Kong's passion for horse-racing. The sport of kings is part of our city's heritage and identity. It is enjoyed by thousands from all walks of life. So the idea of staging race meetings all year round is worth exploring. But it will require careful consideration.
Last weekend, the prospect of extending the racing season through the summer was raised by Jockey Club chairman Ronald Arculli. Under the plan, race-goers would be able - for the first time - to attend meetings in July and August.
This would mean negotiating with the government for authority to hold more than the 78 race meetings a year now permitted.
The club, as we report today, intends to launch feasibility studies to work out the financial and practical implications of such a move. These should be conducted thoroughly and objectively. Much will depend on the results.
Initial opposition to the proposal has, predictably, come from the anti-gambling lobby, which is worried that - after football betting - this will provide yet another avenue for those who fancy a flutter.
Concerns have also been raised about the health risks to race horses, which would have to pound around the track during the hottest months of the year. This is a matter which needs to be taken seriously and it will be considered as part of the studies. But the summer meetings would probably be held in the evenings, when temperatures are cooler. And safeguards could be put in place to ensure that the horses do not suffer.
Hong Kong would be following - rather than setting - an international trend. Racing already takes place all year round in many parts of the world, including Malaysia, Singapore, and Japan.