Guangzhou Gears Up for Horse Racing Renaissance: A New Era for the Equine Industry
After a 27-year hiatus, Guangzhou is preparing to welcome back horse racing, marking a significant step in its collaboration with Hong Kong and a broader push to integrate the equine industry with cultural tourism. The first international-level thoroughbred horse racing event on the Chinese mainland is scheduled for October at the Conghua Racecourse, organized by the Hong Kong Jockey Club and adhering to Hong Kong’s rigorous standards.
Conghua Racecourse: A World-Class Facility
The Conghua Racecourse, inaugurated in early 2018 and built by the Hong Kong Jockey Club, is at the heart of this revival. Located in the Conghua District of Guangzhou, it’s the first world-class racecourse and thoroughbred training center on the mainland. The facility boasts four tracks, 12 stables, a veterinary clinic, and even a horse swimming pool, capable of accommodating over 1,100 horses in training simultaneously. Recent completion of the second phase adds a grandstand with a capacity of 9,500 spectators.
The racecourse’s development has already begun to stimulate the local economy. Businesses like the grocery store run by Chen Daqing and his wife near the hot spring scenic spot have seen increased patronage due to visitors drawn by the racetrack.
A Strategic Partnership with Hong Kong
This initiative isn’t simply about reviving a sport; it’s about deepening cooperation between Guangzhou and Hong Kong in the equine industry. Plans are underway to sign new strategic cooperation agreements, integrating horse racing with cultural and tourism sectors. A deep cooperation zone is also planned for Conghua, specifically focused on the Guangzhou-Hong Kong horse industry.
Guangzhou Customs data reveals a growing trend: between January and July 2025, 5,927 horses entered and exited the region, a 28.6% increase year-over-year, demonstrating the increasing activity in the equine sector.
Beyond Racing: Building a Comprehensive Equine Ecosystem
Looking ahead, Conghua Racecourse has the potential to become a central hub for the equine industry in South China. Experts suggest positioning it as a breeding and trading center, potentially including a thoroughbred breeding center, a horse auction and trading base, and a hub for import and export. This expansion would extend the industry’s value chain and create new economic opportunities.
The upcoming October event is designed as a demonstration race, intentionally excluding gambling or betting, according to government sources. This approach signals a cautious yet optimistic step towards reintroducing horse racing to the mainland.
FAQ
Q: When will horse racing return to Guangzhou?
A: Horse racing events are scheduled to begin in Guangzhou in October.
Q: Where will the races be held?
A: The races will be held at the Conghua Racecourse in the Conghua District of Guangzhou.
Q: Will betting be allowed at the races?
A: The initial demonstration races will not include gambling or betting.
Q: What is the capacity of the Conghua Racecourse grandstand?
A: The grandstand can hold 9,500 spectators.
Q: What are the long-term goals for the Conghua Racecourse?
A: To establish it as a breeding and trading center for the equine industry in South China.
Did you understand? Conghua boasts excellent air and water quality, making it an ideal location for training racehorses.
Explore more about the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s operations at HKJC Operations Excellence.
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