Much to many people's surprise, the Beijing Olympics aren't only being held in Beijing. Hong Kong has been chosen as a co-host, and the 2008 Beijing Olympics in Hong Kong will see a host of equestrian events take place in the city.
Below is some frequently asked questions related to the Beijing Olympics in Hong Kong, including what's on and where, as well as what is happening with tickets.
Which Events are Being Held in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong is holding the Olympic Horseriding (or Equestrian) events. These are split into three disciplines; dressage, jumping and eventing.
Dressage is designed to test the obedience and training of the horse. Riders parade their horse around the arena performing set moves and tasks, as well as performing shows to music. In some ways similar to a dog show.
Jumping is perhaps the best known of the three disciplines, and is as straightforward as the name suggests. Riders must complete a set number of jumps of varying design and difficulty.
Eventing is a combination of both dressage and jumping, as well as cross-country. Horses take part in each trial on separate days over three days, in order to test their endurance and stamina, in addition to the skills needed for jumping and dressage. The cross country event is a set course of nearly 6km, littered with natural hazards such as ditches and fallen trees. Eventing results in both an individual and team winner.
Where are the Events Being Held?
Both the dressage and jumping events will be held at the Sha Tin Racecourse in the New Territories. The cross country element of eventing will be held at Beas River, near the Hong Kong Jockey Club Country Club.
When are the Events?
Events will be held every day from Saturday the 9th of August until the 21st. A full list of events and their times can be found at the Beijing Olympics in Hong Kong website .
How Can I Get Tickets?
Not easily.
Tickets can be bought in Hong Kong from China Travel Service Outlets. The process is quite complicated, check out our How to Buy Tickets for the Olympics in Hong Kong guide for straightforward instructions.
Are There Any Other Olympic Related Events in Hong Kong?
Many, many, many. Hong Kong intends to celebrate the Olympics just as colourfully and nosily as Beijing. You can find our list of the best events in our Olympic Events in Hong Kong article.
What About Events and Tickets in Beijing?
For full information about what's happening in Beijing, Sara Naumann our Guide to China has dedicated information in How to Get Tickets to the 2008 Beijing Olympics?
