Horse racing is a popular spectacle in Hong Kong and many local residents crowd into the racecourses, cheering for their favoured steed.
Location
The Happy Valley Racecourse is situated between the Causeway Bay and Wan Chai, close to a myriad of hotels in Wan Chai Hong Kong and its splendid location reflects the importance it holds in the eyes of Hong Kong residents. The racecourse inherits a history of over a century, with its origins stretching back to the arrival of the British colonialists.
Colonial period
The British commenced work on the racecourse soon after their arrival in Hong Kong, beginning the work of draining the marsh which existed at the location. Although the area was, in fact, a swampland it was still the only suitable territory for a horse racing track existing on Hong Kong Island.
Horse racing track
Although the area was, in fact, a swampland it was still the only suitable territory for a horse racing track existing on Hong Kong Island. As the local government commenced their ambitious plans for the race course, it prohibited the cultivation of rice in the area.
The racecourse today
Since the early days of horse racing in Hong Kong, the Happy Valley Racecourse has been in continuous use over the course of time, except for a brief period of closure during the Second World War. A major refurbishment of the race track was initiated in 1995, with the track being converted into an international standard horse racing venue. This racecourse can conveniently be accessed whilst staying at a well-placed hotel such as Cosmo Hotel Wan Chai Hong Kong.
Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+
