Record Turnover for World Pool in UK and Ireland

The World Pool series, featuring 19 exciting races, including the Lockinge, the Irish Derby, and the Sun Chariot for the first time, has made waves in the UK and Ireland. This year's total turnover reached impressive heights, although slightly lower than 2022's figure of HK$4.9 billion, it still significantly outperformed the 2021 figure of HK$3.9 billion.

Furthermore, the prize money awarded across 131 World Pool races in the UK and Ireland soared to a record-breaking £32 million. Accessible through the Tote, racecourses, online, and the Tote App, the international pari-mutuel pool attracted significant attention and participation.

Michael Fitzsimons, executive director of wagering products at the HKJC, expressed his satisfaction with World Pool's reception in the UK and Ireland. He highlighted the strong turnover figures achieved, especially considering the challenging economic backdrop. Fitzsimons also emphasized the potential for further growth, with plans to introduce World Pool at more flagship race days in the future. Grateful for the dedicated partners, including the UK Tote, Racecourse Media Group, and Ascot Racecourse, Fitzsimons attributed their hard work to another highly successful season.

Martin Stevenson, chief executive of Racecourse Media Group (RMG), acknowledged World Pool's pivotal role in boosting revenues and prize money for British and Irish racing. He commended the strong performance observed in 2023, solidifying World Pool's importance in the industry.

The success of World Pool was not limited to the UK and Ireland. In locations such as Dubai, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Australia, World Pool meetings achieved record-breaking turnover numbers during 2023. Two additional meetings, Cox Plate Day and Victoria Derby Day, are on the horizon for Australia this year, demonstrating the continued expansion of World Pool's influence.

A notable highlight was the 2023 Caulfield Cup, setting a new record for the highest turnover in a World Pool race in Australia with a staggering HK$54.2 million bet into the pool, surpassing the previous weekend's Everest, which had HKD$51.5 million in bets. Only two other World Pool races, the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes and the Dubai World Cup, managed to surpass these impressive pools, highlighting the global appeal of World Pool.