Following the news that the domestic prize-money in Hong Kong will increase by 8% during the 2023/24 season, the 2024 FWD Champions Day Group 1 prize-money will also rise to a combined HK$72 million, the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) announced on Thursday.
The 2000-metre G1 FWD QEII Cup will be run for a purse of HK$28 million (£2,863,265/€3,240,543/$3,566,929) (+12%), making it the richest 2000-metre turf race in the world. The 1200-metre G1 Chairman's Sprint Prize and the 1600-metre G1 FWD Champions Mile will each hold a purse of HK$22 million (£2,249,009/€2,544,984/$2,802,587), an increase of 10%, respectively, on their 2023 editions.
“We are well-established as a world leader but we are conscious that this requires continuous new investment, especially as international competition intensifies,” said HKJC Chief Executive Officer Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges. “We are determined that Hong Kong's international race days continue to be destinations of choice for owners, trainers and jockeys from all over the globe.
“FWD Champions Day provides us with the perfect stage to showcase Hong Kong racing to the world while, at the same time, presenting a platform for international horses, trainers and jockeys to compete at the highest level against Hong Kong's finest. This further investment in prize-money is an important element to achieving this”
All three FWD Champions Day Group 1 races were last year rated in the World's Top 100 Group 1 races. Sunday, Apr. 30 marks the 2023 FWD Champions Day.
Managing Director of Greater China and Hong Kong Chief Executive Officer, FWD, Ken Lau said, “FWD is proud to be the major sponsor of FWD Champions Day since 2019. As the key supporter of one of the world's premier race meetings, we congratulate the Hong Kong Jockey Club for its on-going commitment.
“As a fast-growing pan-Asian life insurer rooted in Hong Kong with more than 10 million customers across 10 markets, FWD is honoured to partner with the Hong Kong Jockey Club to bring world-class excitement and entertainment to local and international audiences, which perfectly aligns with our promise to 'Celebrate living'.”
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