Horse racing is one of the most popular sports in Hong Kong. There's the thrill of watching the horses run plus the possibility of making a little money. Since Hong Kong's return to China, the industry has been expanding rapidly.

People say horse racing represents the Hong Kong spirit. Taking a chance, savoring excitement, and cheering for a winner.

Horse racing doesn't only give people the personal thrill, the influence goes far beyond the race track. The Jockey Club is the biggest charity foundation in Hong Kong, creating millions of jobs for the city.

The horse racing industry is moving steadily toward the finish line. And winning takes more than one form. Since the handover in 1997, the Jockey Club, which owns the Sha Tin course, has contributed more than $17 billion to charity.

Kim K.W. Mak, executive director of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, said, "Racing in Hong Kong is far more than just betting, it's really working with community, through good times and bad times. In terms of sports, our international race is now the world's championship. we have grown to be one of the top jurisdictions in the world."

The horses have been running in Hong Kong for more than a century. When a horse's ears stand up, it means it's nervous. If a horse is sweating, it might be freaking out. Picking a horse and betting on it has brought joy to so many Hong Kong people.

More than winning alone, the essence of the Hong Kong spirit reflected by horse racing is diligence, optimism, and energy.

And those qualities mean that for the industry and the city, the odds look very good indeed.

(CNTV.cn June 26, 2012)