On October 27, 2024, the National Speed Horse Racing Championship kicked off at the Oriental Racing City International Racecourse in Wuhan, China. This prestigious event gathered competitive teams from various regions, including Beijing, Inner Mongolia, Shanxi, Hubei, and Hebei.

Organized by the Chinese Equestrian Association, with support from the Wuhan Sports Bureau, the E Donghu District People’s Government, and Wuhan Business College, the event is executed by the Oriental Race Club Limited.

The championship, part of the 2024 China Speed Horse Racing Series, featured a variety of races, including sprints and longer distances for different age categories of purebred horses born in China. Events included races for 2-year-olds, 3-year-olds, and horses aged 3 and above, with a total prize pool of 600,000 RMB. Awards were presented for categories such as “Best Owner” and “Champion Jockey,” honoring exceptional performances in the races.

A representative from the Chinese Equestrian Association shared that this championship is the oldest of its kind in China and has celebrated an impressive 23 editions since its inception in 1999. The event not only fosters the growth of horse racing in China but also serves as a vibrant showcase of the nation’s equestrian culture and the skills of its jockeys.

In parallel with the championship, the 20th China Wuhan International Horse Racing Festival was also held. Officials from the Wuhan Sports Bureau highlighted the city’s proactive approach to developing a horse racing industry unique to China, showcasing significant achievements. The city has established essential infrastructure at the Oriental Racing City, developed a comprehensive rule system for races, and built a specialized event team along with a multi-tiered talent development program. This groundwork provides a solid foundation for hosting credible horse racing events in Wuhan.

According to Hu Yuegao, president of the Wuhan Oriental Shenma Group, since the city resumed speed horse racing events in October 2003, it has hosted 20 editions of the China Wuhan International Horse Racing Festival and 16 editions of the National Speed Horse Racing Championship, totaling nearly 1,500 races with over 15,000 participating horses. Racing has not only shaped a unique urban identity for Wuhan but has also significantly contributed to the advancement of speed horse racing across China.