Wow!  Yesterday (on behalf of my company) we went to the Happy Valley Hong Kong Jockey Club Racetrack.  Let me sum up this experience in one word.  Incredible.  Even though it was a work night and I was with my colleagues, I thoroughly enjoyed myself.  It’s a consortium of good food, fine wines, great company, small talk and of course, winning (or losing) big money.   We were placed in a private box up on the 8th floor with a private full course buffet, free flowing beverages, including alcohol and a great view of the finish line.

If you have never been to the HKJC racetrack - you should go.  Having lived here this long, I have been there to have dinner (but when there was no racing) - you have to go on a race night.  There is electricity in the air.  The excitement is infectious and so is the gambling!  I was highly impressed with size and perfection of the track and further impressed at the dynamics of the gambling, statistics and appearance of the horse.  I won’t go into the logistics of purchasing, but people are highly suspicious on how the horse looks and most of the betting comes very close to race time (there is about 30 minutes between races).  I myself, personally, bought on statistics and sadly enough - name.  Overall, I was up $40 HKD on bets of $10 and $20 throughout the night on 6 races.  I can’t imagine how people throw tens of thousands into the outcomes, but from a statistical point of view - HKJC is making a killing.

Of course, the best part is that the cost is absorbed by a third party.  Although it was a company event, I must say that I was surprised and happy at how much fun I had!  I haven’t had this much fun in awhile, given how young my children are and how paranoid I am about leaving them at home with the helper for extended periods of time.  However, it is nice to get out once in awhile and down some alcohol (child-free) and enjoy some good company and have a blasting good time all in one shot.  Check it out next time you’re in HK and when the next race season starts.  More obviously, find a friend (or friend’s parents) who have membership!