ENGLISH TEXTS offset by the growth of the international market ( 15 to 18 %). In the end , we recorded a 4.5 % decline . Faced with this observation , we have redoubled our efforts to reposition racing and reconnect with the public , a strategy that is bearing fruit . Currently , we are seeing an increase in local turnover of around 1.5 to 2 %, while commingling is growing by 12 to 13 %. We are also seeing a significant influx of new punters from mainland China . Each race meeting attracts between 2,000 and 3,000 Chinese tourists , and we expect nearly 8,000 this Sunday . Despite this positive momentum , attendance at our racecourses during routine meetings has decreased by about 15 %. Punters have acquired a taste for the digital experience during the pandemic and no longer feel the need to travel , except for special events . However , our studies show that regular physical presence at the racecourse ( at least seven visits per year ) is essential to retain punters . We must therefore create more events and offer on-course entertainment to encourage interaction and offer an immersive experience “.
“ VISITORS WILL BE ABLE TO INTERACT WITH AN AVATAR OF GOLDEN SIXTY , FOR EXAMPLE !”
Attracting the Younger Generation “ We are actively targeting Generation Z , for whom we have developed a specific offering . It is encouraging to see 10 % growth in this customer segment . Our new Happy Valley site , “ Vintage and Beat “, offers a digital racing experience , thanks in part to artificial intelligence ( AI ). This pilot project allows younger generations to decipher traditional racing form , which can be difficult to access , and to access AI-generated betting recommendations based on criteria that users select themselves ( jockey form , horse form , trainer form , etc .). The objective is to familiarise them with the key elements of race analysis in a fun and interactive way . It is very interactive and the feedback on this pilot project is positive . We plan to roll it out on our digital platforms ( mobile applications in particular ) in the coming months “.
Racing Tourism “ Tourism was identified as a key sector by the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR in his recent policy address . For the first time , the government recognises the importance of racing tourism in Hong Kong ’ s recovery , which opens up new perspectives for us . We have already started to transform one of our spaces , the Champion Circle , which will be operational next April . But the major project is the creation of a new grandstand , with a dedicated entrance and an immersive experience for tourists . It will feature a high-tech space with AI-generated content and virtual reality . Visitors will be able to interact with an avatar of Golden Sixty , for example ! Different spaces will be designed to meet the expectations of each customer segment , including a dedicated space for Generation Z with a digital atmosphere and innovative catering options . Our current customer base is over 50 years old . It is crucial to rejuvenate our audience to ensure the sustainability of racing in Hong Kong . The social acceptability of horseracing is a major issue . If we fail to attract the younger generation , it will be compromised and our future will be threatened . A study conducted for the International Federation on this subject shows that 10 to 12 % of the population is questioning the use of animals for recreational purposes . If we do not communicate effectively on this subject , the public may turn against us and policymakers will be less inclined to support us “.
Horse Welfare “ Accidents are unfortunately inevitable in sport , but we must do everything we can to prevent them , especially those that can be avoided . We simply cannot ignore this aspect of our business any longer , and we must show that we are doing everything in our power to prevent these accidents . Science and technology play a crucial role in injury prevention . By demonstrating our commitment to animal welfare , we strengthen the social acceptability of racing . It is also crucial to think about the retraining of horses after their sporting careers . These are essential aspects to ensure the sustainability of our activity . I am a numbers man . Statistics show that the rate of breakdowns on HISA ( Horse Racing Integrity and Safety Authority ) -regulated American racetracks has halved since the creation of the Authority . Without this federal agency , I think American racing would be in great difficulty . HISA has also had a positive impact on the fight against prohibited substances . Some will say it has gone too far , but the principle is commendable and has helped restore confidence in the integrity of American racing and horses , which is necessary if we want to be able to import Thoroughbreds from the United States . Before HISA , it was difficult to know if the performances of American horses were achieved under acceptable conditions . This is a major step forward that we welcome “.
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