Gambling in Hong Kong

Public gambling banned in Hong Kong under British colonial rule

Dec 12, 1844

First recorded horse race in Happy Valley

Dec 12, 1846

Hong Kong Jockey Club founded

Dec 12, 1884

Fire at Happy Valley kills over 500 people

Dec 12, 1918

First stands constructed in Happy Valley

Dec 12, 1932

Racecourse closed during World War II

Period: Dec 12, 1941 to Dec 12, 1945

HKJC's first charitable donations

Dec 12, 1955

First government lottery tickets introduced

Dec 12, 1962

HKJC becomes professional organisation

Dec 12, 1971

Government authorises off-site betting

Dec 12, 1973

Mark Six Lottery begins

Dec 12, 1975

Gambling Ordinance legislation passed in Hong Kong, limiting gambling to private social events or specific, government-approved gambling establishments

Dec 12, 1977

Sha Tin Racecourse opened

Dec 12, 1978

First international horse race held in Hong Kong

Dec 12, 1988

Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule

Dec 12, 1997

Macau returned to Chinese rule

Dec 12, 1999

Macau lifts gaming monopoly and allows outside investment

Dec 12, 2002

HKJC begins football betting

Dec 12, 2003