The LONGINES Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) is a centerpiece of the global horse racing calendar, often referred to as the “Turf World Championships.” Held on the second Sunday of December, this year-end Group 1 showcase brings together the best international talent for four prestigious races, providing an exciting and competitive spectacle for fans and industry insiders alike.
These races—the LONGINES Hong Kong Cup (HK$40 million), LONGINES Hong Kong Mile (HK$36 million), LONGINES Hong Kong Sprint (HK$26 million), and LONGINES Hong Kong Vase (HK$24 million)—offer a combined record purse of HK$126 million, the largest prize money for any international racing event. The event attracts top-tier horses, jockeys, trainers, and owners from across the globe. With extensive media coverage and tens of thousands of fans at Sha Tin Racecourse, the vibrant atmosphere underscores its status as a world-class event. The competition is fierce, with each race offering a unique challenge for both the horses and their connections, adding to the thrill of the occasion.
The origins of HKIR trace back to 24 January 1988, when the Hong Kong International Races debuted with the Hong Kong Invitation Cup. This inaugural event, open only to horses from Malaysia and Singapore, was a modest yet significant step toward establishing Hong Kong as a premier venue for international racing. The race quickly expanded its reach, welcoming entries from an increasing number of nations, including Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Macau, New Zealand, South Africa, the UAE, and the USA. What began as a single race evolved into today’s four-feature event, with each race now playing a key role in the international racing scene.
Over the years, the LONGINES Hong Kong Cup has been recognized as one of the most prestigious turf events in the world, with each of its four races now firmly established in the global racing calendar. All four races ranked among the LONGINES World’s Top 100 G1 Races of 2023, with the Hong Kong Cup and Mile tied at 15th and 18th, respectively, the Vase at 44th, and the Sprint at 71st. These rankings reflect the continued global recognition and growing prestige of the event.
HKIR has produced unforgettable moments and historic victories from some of the most iconic horses in the world. Legendary Asian champions like Silent Witness, Golden Sixty, Sacred Kingdom, Beauty Generation, Ambitious Dragon, Able Friend, Good Ba Ba, Lord Kanaloa, Eishin Preston, Maurice, and A Shin Hikari have all made their mark on the international stage. Australasian icons such as the brilliant mare Sunline and European stars including Snow Fairy, Ouija Board, Falbrav, Fantastic Light, Alexander Goldrun, Red Cadeaux, Ramonti, and Highland Reel have also etched their names in HKIR history, elevating the event to even greater heights.
More than 30 years after its inception, the LONGINES Hong Kong International Races stands as one of the world’s truly elite horse racing events. The event continues to draw the best and brightest from the world of racing, offering an unparalleled stage for champions to showcase their talents. With its rich history, exceptional racing, and global appeal, HKIR is undeniably a highlight of the international racing calendar, bringing together racing enthusiasts from all corners of the globe in celebration of excellence.
