Reflecting on the end of horse racing in Singapore and its cultural implications.
I remember the first and only time I watched a horse race in person. It was at Hong Kong’s Happy Valley Racecourse, where the electrifying energy left a lasting impression. The floodlights, vibrant music, and bustling food stalls set the stage for a thrilling experience. Crowds ranged from wealthy businessmen to seasoned regulars, all engrossed in the excitement of betting.
In stark contrast, Singapore’s horse racing industry had long been fading before the government announced the Singapore Turf Club’s closure in 2024. This decision will end horse racing in the nation after 180 years, with the land repurposed for public housing and recreation.
Attendance at races has steadily declined, reflecting a generational shift in interests. For younger Singaporeans, traditional gambling outlets like horse racing have been replaced by activities like mahjong. As practical as it seems, the closure raises questions about Singapore’s quickness to erase spaces with historical significance.
The city’s push for efficiency has led to the rapid redevelopment of places with cultural and historical value. Iconic locations like Toa Payoh’s night vegetable market and the Golden Mile Complex have already made way for modernization. While change is inevitable, the loss of these landmarks brings a quiet sadness, as pieces of history vanish into memory.
For the Singapore Turf Club, the numbers make the decision logical. A 124-hectare venue drawing only 2,600 attendees per race no longer justifies its existence. Yet, there’s no way to quantify the cultural and emotional impact of losing a 180-year-old institution.
As Singapore moves forward, it faces the risk of becoming a city of cookie-cutter neighborhoods and indistinguishable spaces, sacrificing uniqueness for uniformity. While the redeveloped land may benefit many, the loss of experiences like live horse racing is a reminder of the cost of progress.
