The Hong Kong International Races (HKIR) is one of the most prestigious events on the global horse racing calendar, drawing attention from racing fans around the world.

Held annually at the iconic Sha Tin Racecourse, the event promises top-quality racing action, and 2024 will certainly be no different. Whether you’re a horse racing punter or a new fan of the sport looking to learn more about the meeting, the Hong Kong International Races is only getting bigger and better each year.

The HKIR features four major Group 1 races, each with a rich history – and perhaps more importantly substantial prize money – that peaks the interest from leading trainers worldwide.

The four races are: the Hong Kong Cup, Hong Kong Mile, Hong Kong Sprint, and Hong Kong Vase. These races showcase the pinnacle of the sport, as international stars battle it out for glory on one of the world’s finest tracks – as well as a rather generous pay day for those that are successful.

The Race Traditionally Dominated by the Southern Hemisphere Horses

The HKIR has long been a stage where Southern Hemisphere-based horses have thrived. Horses from Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa have enjoyed plenty of success in years gone by, down to the fact they relish the more favorable conditions – and the time of year – the event is held.

Southern Hemisphere horses, particularly those from Australia and New Zealand, are often in peak form for this meeting held in December. This timing works perfectly for these horses, as the racing season in the Southern Hemisphere wraps up in the spring/early summer, meaning horses are both fresh and ready for international competition.

Long-haul flights and travel logistics have long been part of the challenge for horses and their connections travelling to Hong Kong, but the rewards are often too good to ignore.

Horses from the Southern Hemisphere, that are accustomed to racing in tough conditions, find Sha Tin’s track a fitting challenge. Over the years, horses such as Australia’s Glenn Boss have dominated the Hong Kong Cup, and it’s certainly a betting angle to keep an eye on if you are looking to place a wager.

The stats also back up this trend. Out of the 24 editions of the Hong Kong Cup, 12 have been won by Southern Hemisphere horses. That’s 50%. Similarly, the Hong Kong Sprint has also been a race dominated by horses from Australia and New Zealand, where sprinting prowess is honed over years of competition on their home turf.

The flight from Australia or New Zealand to Hong Kong is around eight hours, and this journey has become a routine for many top-tier horses. Although it’s a long haul flight, the horses are carefully prepared for the trip, ensuring they arrive at Sha Tin in prime condition to perform, ready to compete – and hopefully win.

But Ireland Has Had Some Good Winners

While the Southern Hemisphere has certainly enjoyed its fair share of success, horses from Ireland have also made their mark on the HKIR, producing memorable moments over the years.

In fact, Ireland’s dominance in various global racing competitions has extended to Sha Tin, where trainer Aidan O’Brien and jockey Ryan Moore bring their A-game to Hong Kong. They are the best in the business for a reason, and it would be foolish to write them off based purely on their location.

Ireland’s influence in the HKIR is not limited to one particular race, as Irish-trained horses have excelled at the meeting across various high-profile races.

Irish horses have proven competitive in the Hong Kong Vase, as Search For A Song, trained by O’Brien’s stable, finished on top only last year.

But it’s not just the horses that have impressed. The Irish breeding industry has long been a driving force in the world of horse racing, producing horses that possess the stamina, class, and consistency required to perform on the international stage. In fact, many horses that raced in Hong Kong hailed from renowned Irish studs, further cementing Ireland’s place in the HKIR’s history.

Over the last few years, Ireland’s success in Hong Kong has been particularly noteworthy. In 2021, O’Brien’s Alcohol Free clinched victory in the Hong Kong Mile, with Ryan Moore guiding the mare to a famous victory.

Another O’Brien trained horse, Magical, has performed admirably in Asia. This incredibly-talented mare, who had a phenomenal career in Europe, finished as a close second in the Hong Kong Cup in 2020. Magical’s consistent form and ability to thrive in Hong Kong’s competitive field speaks volumes about the quality of Irish-trained horses.

Even beyond the races, Ireland’s role in Hong Kong’s thoroughbred scene continues to grow, with Irish jockeys, trainers, and owners making a significant impact on the event’s landscape.

Will We See Success in 2024?

As we look ahead to the next HKIR, there is no shortage of talented contenders making the long journey across from Ireland. Given the recent success of Irish-trained horses, many racing fans and bettors are eagerly anticipating whether they will see yet another standout performance from the Emerald Isle in this year’s renewal.

Aidan O’Brien has a few standout horses that will be looking to make a serious impact in the HKIR, particularly in the Hong Kong Mile and Hong Kong Cup.

Luxembourg, who has shown promise in Europe and looks set to travel well, looks to be one of his best chances of success for the Hong Kong Cup. Luxembourg has already had a good 2024 campaign, and his combination of both stamina and speed could give him a real edge over his competitors.

Another Irish horse worth keeping an eye on is Little Big Bear, who is also trained by Aiden O’Brien. Known for his strong finishes, the four-year-old could be a potential challenger for the Hong Kong Sprint, a race where every decision from the jockey counts, and the competition is always fierce. Little Big Bear’s natural ability to accelerate and finish strong could be the secret ingredient if the other horses go too hard in the early stages of the race.

If we now switch our attention to the jockeys, Ryan Moore is once again expected to make plenty of noise in Hong Kong. The English-born rider has formed a strong connection with Irish-trained horses and is also well-versed in Sha Tin’s unique challenges.

With a variety of options at his disposal, Moore’s world-class decision-making will be pivotal to the success of Ireland’s horses. Let’s wait and see who he chooses to ride in Asia.

Of course, it’s not just the Irish who are in with a chance. Hong Kong’s home-grown talents, as well as top trainers from Japan, Australia, and Europe, will be competing for a share of the glory.

The 2024 edition of the HKIR promises to be as exciting and unpredictable as ever. For new racing fans, it’s important to remember that the sport is unpredictable – even at the very top.

Horses who’ve previously underperformed may suddenly hit form, while occasionally long-shots emerge as champions. The dynamic nature of the event adds an extra layer of excitement, especially for those looking to place bets on any of the races.

Get Ready for 2024’s Showdown

As the 2024 Hong Kong International Races approach, there is plenty to get excited about. Whether you’re cheering for the Southern Hemisphere’s heavyweights or hoping that Irish-trained horses like Luxembourg and Little Big Bear take centre stage, it’s almost expected to win more racing fans over as it does each year.

For new racing fans or experienced ones looking for a new event to bet on,, it’s never too early to start researching the horses, trainers, and the races themselves.

And once you’re ready to place your bet, look no further than Tonybet, who will offer some of the best odds on each and every race. The 2024 edition promises to be another unforgettable event. Get ready to be entertained.

Bet on the races with Tonybet today!