Horse racing is now one of the most ancient sports in history. It is not only considered as a popular sports competition or a way of entertainment, but also as a social event, involving many business activities. The raising and training of horses vary depending on breeds, age, genetics and race type. And every race applies to strict rules regarding the age and weight of the horses. There are different kinds of races including flat racing, jump racing, endurance racing and harness racing. Flat racing is often open to the public for gambling, and gambling is definitely the biggest economic support to the whole horse racing industry.
Japan
(Deep Impact, center, picture from CNN website)
When talking about horse racing in Asia, Japan is definitely one of the first ones to think of, as it is the owner of the best events with the highest rewards in the world. There are two main organizers: JRA (Japan Racing Association) and NAR (National Association of Racing), together hosting more than 20 racing hippodromes all over Japan. Japan Cup, among many other famous horse races, is one of the richest and most prestigious race in the world. Total prize for the race can reach as high as $5 million. There are many famous horses such as Deep Impact and Sunday Silence. In 2016, Deep Impact won $60 million rewards, becoming the No.1 stallion in the world, far ahead the No.2.
(Japan Cup Audience, picture from CNN website)
The way how Japan developed its horse racing industry was very impressive. In the 1980s, Japan set up the high-rewarding Japan Cup to attract top international participants. At that time, out of 10 races, Japan was only winning 2 of them. During 1990s, Japan bought Sunday Silence from the United States. A better breed plus a strong economic support made Japan better and better, starting to win 5 races out of 10. In 2006, Deep Impact won its first race and for 10 years in a row, no other countries were able to compete with Japan anymore. The love and passion from Japanese people contribute to Japanese gambling industry. While the betting money goes back to the rewards, Japan Cup remains the most attractive race in the world.
Hong Kong
http://www.hkjc.com/home/english/index.aspx
(Hong Kong Shatin Day Race, picture from author)
The introduction of horse racing in Asia thanks a lot to the United Kingdom. Besides Japan and Hong Kong, many other countries and regions including Singapore, South Korea, Macau and Malaysia have horse races and each of them has a unique cultural background. The meaning of horse racing went far beyond the sport, becoming a tool for social activities, economic development and diplomacy.
—-Lizzy Ren