The Hong Kong Jockey Club (“Club”) announced today (5 May 2023) the signing of a Supplemental Framework Cooperation Agreement with the Chinese Equestrian Association (“CEA”). The agreement takes forward the Framework Agreement signed in 2020, further expanding the scope of collaboration and extending the period of cooperation to jointly promote and support the development of speed racing and equestrian industry in the Mainland.

The agreement signed for five years with the CEA in 2020 set out that the Club would support the CEA to develop a tailor-made programme designed to meet the needs of the Chinese equestrian industry. The Club is also providing funds for the CEA to roll out and deliver the programme nationwide.

Witnessed by the Club’s Chief Executive Officer Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges and President of the CEA Zhang Xiaoning, a Supplemental Agreement was signed today to fully promote the strategic cooperation in speed racing and equestrian industry as well as extending the cooperation until May 2028. The Club plans to provide sponsorship for the CEA to hold a high-grade China speed racing competition with properly-registered competing horses and at an appropriate venue, and offer technical workshops during the event to upskill invited industry participants. The Club also plans to provide technical advice on industry standards in speed racing industry in the Mainland through its participation in the CEA Racing Committee.

In terms of equestrian events, the Club plans to work with the CEA and relevant equestrian associations on equestrian events in Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (“GBA”) at appropriate venues.

In addition, the Club and the CEA agreed to collaborate in equestrian talent training, including providing development opportunities in training or competitions for young people in the Mainland and Hong Kong. The Club also plans to work with the CEA to organise some of the Fédération Equestre Internationale Officials training in the GBA, so as to jointly support the development of equestrian talents in the Mainland and Hong Kong.

“We are delighted to sign the Supplemental Agreement with the CEA today to strengthen our ongoing partnership. The National Equine Industry Development Plan (“NEIDP”), jointly promulgated by the General Administration of Sport and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, provides a blueprint for a robust, high-quality equine industry in the country. Through joining hands with the CEA in this agreement, we are confident that it will bring considerable benefits to the Mainland’s equine industry and help realise the goals and aspirations outlined in the NEIDP,” said Mr Engelbrecht-Bresges.

“The enhanced collaboration with the CEA attests to the Club’s longstanding commitment to the country’s development. We look forward to working with CEA colleagues to further strengthen the national equine industry and showcasing China’s good stories around the world,” added Mr Engelbrecht-Bresges.

With world-class facilities and extensive experience in hosting major international equestrian events, the Club is capable of providing international-standard technical support, including equine quarantine, transport, isolation and anti-doping testing at equestrian and racing events. From hosting equestrian events for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games to supporting equestrian events for the 2010 Guangzhou Asian Games, as well as participating in the construction and operation of Conghua Racecourse, the Club has spared no effort in contributing to the development of the equestrian industry in the Mainland and in the GBA. The Club will continue to support the Mainland’s sports development and promote the coordinated development of the sports industry.