Hong Kong jumps into action for Olympic Games

Johanna Griggs & Andrew Clark

Hong Kong is expecting even larger crowds when it hosts the Olympic Equestrian events in August and September, which also marks its first ever presence as a Games host city. 

Chosen as one of nine host cities outside of Beijing, the city was chosen to host the 2008 Olympic Games Equestrian Events due to its renowned world-class facilities.

The jumping and dressage events will be held from 9 to 21 August for the Olympic Games and from 7 to 11 September for the Paralympics Games, is expected to pave the way for the city to gain international spotlight from sporting nations including Australia and New Zealand.

“Hong Kong was an obvious choice due to its horse racing industry,” HKTB Australia Manager, Andrew Clark said.

It will also be the first time Equestrian events are held in a horse racing venue.  It will be held at Hong Kong’s Sports Institute in Sha Tin as well as the Hong Kong Jockey Club Beas River Country Club. 

Speaking at a trade function in Sydney last week, Olympic-medallist and host of Channel 7’s Olympic coverage, Johanna Griggs said the event will also allow those who want to be part of the games the opportunity without having to visit mainland China. 

Horsing around at the trade function in Sydney