The Hong Kong Jockey Club (the Club) today (Tuesday, 21 October) hosted a media tour of the newly renovated stables and upgraded training facilities for jockeys at Sha Tin Racecourse (STRC), showcasing its ongoing investment in world-class infrastructure that supports the development of elite horses and riders.
Speaking at the event, Mr Andrew Harding, Executive Director, Racing, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, emphasised the strategic importance of these enhancements in maintaining Hong Kong’s global standing in thoroughbred racing.
“Hong Kong racing is defined by its pursuit of excellence, and that begins with the facilities we provide for our horses and jockeys,” Mr Harding said. “The Club remains firmly committed to continual investment in horse training facilities and enhancing the value proposition for horse owners. This underpins the success of Hong Kong racing and enables us to deliver a world-class racing product.”
Mr Harding highlighted the complementary role of Conghua Racecourse in enabling the Sha Tin upgrades. “Conghua has proven its strategic importance, not only offering an exceptional training environment for Hong Kong racehorses, but also allowing us to address critical asset health issues at Sha Tin. The completed Phase I of the multiphase redevelopment incorporates features that enhance horse safety and welfare, labour productivity, and employee well-being.”
He also introduced new training facilities now available at STRC. “The installation of equine treadmills provides trainers with additional options for training and rehabilitation. Treadmills are a key element in other major jurisdictions and their introduction here is important for attracting world-class training talent. Data on treadmill usage is being captured and made available to the public through our Racing Information System.”
Mr Harding further noted the Club’s commitment to jockey development. “Over the past five years, we’ve established a Centre of Excellence at Sha Tin that operates seven days a week. It includes a gym for jockeys’ exclusive use and facilities for sessions with health professionals such as physiotherapists, nutritionists, chiropractors, masseuses, fitness trainers, and psychologists. This off-season, we have completed a major upgrade, including a new gymnasium, cold plunge pools, and a kitchen offering made-to-order meals tailored to jockeys’ dietary needs. The female jockeys’ room has also been significantly enhanced.”
Mr Stephen Higgins, Head of Raceday Operations, Tracks and Racing Facilities, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, introduced the upgraded jockeys’ training facilities, which now feature enhanced gym and physiotherapy areas, including cold plunge pools that aid rider recovery and performance. Full-time personal trainers and physiotherapists are on-site to provide comprehensive support for physical conditioning, injury prevention and mental well-being – reinforcing the Club’s commitment to athlete welfare.
Meanwhile, Mr K L Cheng, Head of Dual Site Stables Operations, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, outlined the improvements to the stables, which include redesigned layouts to enhance horse comfort and movement, sheltered walking zones for weather protection and a newly installed treadmill for controlled exercise and rehabilitation. These upgrades further elevate the standard of care provided to Hong Kong’s racehorses, reflecting the Club’s commitment to maintaining world-class standards in equine care.
