Important Barrier Draw Facts

Another interesting feature of Hong Kong racing is that the barrier draws (post positions) don't correspond to the official betting numbers. This means that the number #1 horse could be in any barrier position, not just the inside position. You have to keep this in mind when you are betting that although a horse has a low saddlecloth number (1-2-3-4) does not necessarily mean that his position in the starting gate corresponds to that number.

This is done because the betting numbers will correspond to each horse's rating number. While the post position's are later drawn by random lot. This can be a bit confusing at times, but once you get used to it, is readily accepted. So if you are used to betting on North American racing then this is something you will definitely want to keep in mind when betting on Hong Kong racing. 

Another thing to watch for is a Withdrawal. A racing Withdrawal is basically the scratching of a horse. In Hong Kong however if the scratch is made early enough then an also eligible horse will likely draw in and take the withdrawn horses place in the race.

There are usually a pair of standby starters listed for each race. When a horse is withdrawn and replaced by one of these standby runners it is announced prior to post time. You can listen to the public address announcer for these changes or check the list of withdrawals and and changes listed on the Hong Kong Jockey Club website prior to each race card.