Guide to Sports in the Middle of Happy Valley Racecourse, Hong Kong
Happy Valley Racecourse in Hong Kong is famous for its horse racing events, but the infield area also hosts various sports facilities. These facilities cater to different sports, including football, rugby, hockey, and general leisure activities. Here’s a guide to the sports available in the middle of the racecourse.
1. Hong Kong Football Club (HKFC)
Established in 1886, the Hong Kong Football Club is a private members' club located inside the infield of Happy Valley Racecourse. The club provides top-class facilities for football, rugby, and hockey. The main pitch is synthetic and is used for professional matches and training. HKFC also organizes various sports events for its members.
2. Valley RFC
Valley RFC is a well-known sports club based in Happy Valley, offering rugby, netball, and hockey. The rugby section, Societe Generale Valley RFC, has been one of the most successful domestic rugby teams in recent years. The hockey section consists of multiple men's and women's teams, making it one of the largest in Hong Kong. Valley RFC is deeply connected to the Happy Valley sports community.
3. Public Sports Facilities
The infield of the racecourse contains publicly accessible sports facilities, including football, hockey, and rugby fields. These are managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department and are open for public use through prior booking. Many local sports teams and casual players use these facilities regularly.
Access and Membership
While the public sports facilities are available to everyone, those operated by the Hong Kong Football Club and Valley RFC primarily require membership. However, some events and training sessions may be open to non-members. Anyone interested in joining these clubs or using the facilities should check their membership options or event schedules.
Happy Valley Racecourse is not just a hub for horse racing but also a vibrant center for sports and recreation, making it an essential part of Hong Kong’s sporting culture.
