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Sport facilities in Hong Kong (1)

Hong Kong

The Happy Valley Racecourse, one of two major horse racing venues in Hong Kong, is both a racing hub and a popular tourist attraction. Located in Happy Valley on Hong Kong Island, it is encircled by Wong Nai Chung Road and Morrison Hill Road and has a seating capacity of 55,000.Constructed in 1845 to serve the British residents in Hong Kong, the area was initially swampland but was converted to accommodate horse racing. It was the only flat land on the island suitable for such a purpose, leading the Hong Kong government to prohibit nearby rice cultivation to make way for the racecourse. The first race took place in December 1846, and over time, horse racing gained significant popularity among Chinese residents as well.However, the venue’s history is not without tragedy. On February 26, 1918, a temporary grandstand collapsed, causing a fire that resulted in at least 590 fatalities when hot food stalls ignited bamboo matting.In 1995, the racecourse underwent extensive renovations, enhancing its facilities and introducing modern amenities. Today, it serves as one of two racecourses operated by the Hong Kong Jockey Club, alongside the Sha Tin Racecourse. Happy Valley typically hosts races on Wednesday nights, which are open to the public and club members. Its seven-story stands can accommodate approximately 55,000 spectators.Beyond racing, the inner field of the course is a hub for sports and recreation, featuring 11 football pitches, as well as hockey and rugby fields, managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department. Additionally, the Hong Kong Jockey Club Archive and Museum, established in 1995 and opened in 1996, now resides on the second floor of the Happy Valley Stand, offering insights into the rich history of horse racing in the region.This blend of historical significance, modern facilities, and cultural relevance makes the Happy Valley Racecourse a landmark of Hong Kong's sporting and social life.

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