Data Point related to: ELEMENT
Happy Valley Racecourse
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.
Type of Data Point - Basic Data Point - Source Wikipedia
Happy Valley Racecourse - Wikipedia
Visit page of the element - Happy Valley Racecourse
Inserted: 28-12-2024 21:12:03
Questions related to this Data Point
How did the Hong Kong government repurpose the land for the Happy Valley Racecourse?
How does the Happy Valley Racecourse accommodate both public visitors and Hong Kong Jockey Club members?
How does the Happy Valley Racecourse differ from the Sha Tin Racecourse in its typical schedule?
What historical event in 1918 significantly impacted the Happy Valley Racecourse, and what were its consequences?
What measures were taken in 1995 to modernize the Happy Valley Racecourse?
What sports and leisure facilities are available within the inner field of the Happy Valley Racecourse?
What year was the Happy Valley Racecourse first constructed, and for what primary purpose?
Where is the Hong Kong Racing Museum located within the Happy Valley Racecourse?
Contexts related to this Data Point
Map of Hong Kong
Sport facilities in Hong Kong
Sport in the city
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Credits: Minghong, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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