The Hong Kong Jockey Club broke two records on July 16, the last day of the 2022-23 season.
According to GGRAsia, the 88th meeting broke turnover records for both a single race meeting and the season finale, with results credited to simulcasts of overseas races.
International contests contributed to a 12.5 percent growth in simulcast turnover to more than HK$11.8 billion (US$1.51 billion), with HK$10.5 billion (US$1.34 billion) coming from Hong Kong customers. Turnover based on World Pool action from overseas customers and partners also grew by 23 percent to HK$1.3 billion (US$166 million). Turnover of all simulcast races under the World Pool brand grew from HK$6.2 billion (US$793 million) in 2021-22 to HK$7.3 billion (US$934 million), a 18.5 percent increase.
“Under such a challenging economic situation, our overall season racing turnover of HK$141.1 billion is very satisfactory,” said Jockey Club CEO Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges.
“The strength of the turnover reflects the quality of our products and the on-going support of our customers. However, we will stay vigilant as there will be significant challenges from offshore bookmakers following the reopening of borders and also illegal bookmakers.
“To ensure our racing will stay competitive and maintain its world-class status, we will re-invest in racecourse assets and enhance customer experience,” he said. “We will also grasp the unique development opportunity in the Greater Bay Area under the ‘one country-two systems’ principle. After all, the club is acting for the betterment of society. All we do is to contribute more to our community with a strategic focus that best meets the needs of Hong Kong people.”
