The Hong Kong Equestrian Performance Plan (HKEPP) was launched by The Hong Kong Jockey Club in 2016 to develop Hong Kong's high-performing riders and support their pursuit of excellence on the international stage. Building on the Club's long-standing commitment to equestrian sport development since its establishment in 1884, HKEPP provides a structured, merit-based pathway for talented riders to progress from youth development to elite competition.
The programme was introduced following years of investment in equestrian sport, including the successful hosting of the equestrian events of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in Hong Kong and the establishment of the HKJC Equestrian Team and Junior Equestrian Training Squad (JETS). As Hong Kong riders began achieving success in international competitions, a more comprehensive performance framework was developed to further support their ambitions and maximise their potential.
HKEPP adopts a holistic approach to athlete development, providing riders with access to an experienced performance manager, coaches, veterinarians, grooms, farriers, physiotherapists and other specialist support personnel. In addition to technical coaching and performance monitoring, the programme also provides access to competition horses, training opportunities and international competition exposure, ensuring that both riders and horses receive the support necessary to perform at the highest level.
The effectiveness of the programme has been demonstrated through a number of significant achievements for Hong Kong equestrian sport. In 2018, Hong Kong won its first-ever Asian Games equestrian gold medal when Jacqueline Siu captured the Individual Dressage title. This success was followed by another milestone in 2019, when Hong Kong secured gold in the Team Jumping competition at the inaugural FEI Asian Championships.
The year 2019 marked a number of other highs for the Club’s development of its equestrian programmes. In a major show of support, Equestrian Sport was awarded Tier A status by the Hong Kong Sports Institute (HKSI); and to provide wider coverage and to expand the development cycle for young riders, the Club unveiled the more comprehensive Youth Equestrian Development Programme. In 2022, The Club expanded it with the addition of a Youth Squad (Mainland), to support young talented Hong Kong athletes who are based full time in the Mainland to progress along the pathway to success. The Club continues to work closely with the HKSI and The Equestrian Federation of Hong Kong, China (EFHKC) to provide athletes across different squad levels with tailored support, technical expertise and development opportunities. Building upon an already firm foundation, the stage is now set for an even brighter future for Hong Kong’s equestrian sports development.
