HONG KONG – The Hong Kong Jockey Club will kick off its 2026/27 racing season on Sept. 6 at Sha Tin Racecourse, with pop superstar Aaron Kwok headlining the event as the official “Year of the Horse Ambassador.” The opening day marks the start of a new campaign for one of the world’s premier horse racing jurisdictions.
Kwok, a longtime horse owner and equestrian enthusiast, will perform the club’s new seasonal anthem “Chong Chong Chong” live for the first time during the ceremony. The song, which debuted Aug. 10, has already accumulated more than 22.7 million total views across digital platforms as of Aug. 24, according to the Jockey Club.
The opening day promotional poster was designed by renowned art directors William Chang and Wing Shya, featuring Kwok in a stylish pose alongside his own calligraphy of the Chinese character “horse.” The visual concept aims to embody the sport’s spirit of unity between rider and steed.
A Personal Connection to Racing
Kwok expressed enthusiasm about his role, noting his deep ties to the equestrian world. “I have always had a profound connection with horses—as an owner and a true lover of the animals,” he said in a statement. “This year, I am deeply honored to serve as the ‘Year of the Horse Ambassador’ and to create music works under this special identity. Performing the song live makes me feel both privileged and passionate.”
The singer added that the anthem carries an inspirational message. “I hope everyone enjoys it and finds resonance. I also want to use this song to encourage each person to charge forward fearlessly like a thoroughbred, sprinting toward their goals—chong, chong, chong!”
New Season, High Expectations
The 2026/27 season opener at Sha Tin will feature a full card of races, including several early-season feature events. The Hong Kong Jockey Club operates the city’s two racetracks—Sha Tin and Happy Valley—and runs one of the most competitive racing circuits globally, with annual betting turnover exceeding HK$140 billion.
Industry observers anticipate strong attendance for opening day, which typically draws tens of thousands of fans. The event also serves as a platform for the club to unveil new initiatives, including enhanced facilities and digital innovations aimed at improving the spectator and betting experience.
Broader Impact on Hong Kong’s Racing Culture
The Jockey Club’s seasonal launches have evolved beyond sport into major cultural and entertainment events. By enlisting a celebrity ambassador like Kwok and collaborating with top-tier designers, the organization reinforces racing’s place in Hong Kong’s social fabric. The move also helps attract younger demographics to a sport that has faced competition from other entertainment options.
As the new season approaches, horse owners, trainers, and jockeys are finalizing preparations. The club will publish the full race schedule and entry lists in the coming weeks. For fans unable to attend, the races will be broadcast live on local television and the club’s digital platforms.
The 2026/27 season runs until July 2027, with major races including the Hong Kong International Races and the Champions & Chater Cup expected to draw international attention.
