Spectator guide

Hong Kong information

Hong Kong is situated at the southern end of the East China Sea adjacent to Guangdong Province. It covers 1,104 square kilometers, and is made of up Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and the New Territories (including 262 outer islands). The population is 7 million, with 95 percent of Chinese nationality.

Climate

Hong Kong is in the subtropical zone. The winter temperatures may drop to 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) or below. Summers are hot and humid. Between May and August, the midday temperature can exceed 31 degrees Celsius (87.8 degrees Fahrenheit).

Banking / Currency

Most banks are open Monday through Friday from 9:00 to 13:00. 24-hour ATMs are available all over the city with regular deposit and withdrawal services. The local currency is the Hong Kong dollar (HKD).

Visas

Chinese nationals from the mainland must apply for a Hong Kong pass from their local public security. Many foreign nationals do not need a visa, as long as they have a passport that is valid for a minimum of six months, and stay in Hong Kong for less than 180 days, For details, go to: http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_4.htm

Owing to the "one country, two systems" policy, those who plan to enter the Mainland from Hong Kong need to obtain a Chinese visa. For details, refer to the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC at: http://www.fmprc.gov.cn/eng/wjb/zwjg/default.htm. Or the website for Chinese embassies abroad at: http://www.Chinese-embassy.com.

Railway Network

Hong Kong has an extensive, fast and reliable railway network linking Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and Lantau Island, as well as destinations just across the border in China. Tickets can be purchased for specific routes, or there is a pre-charged "Octopus" card valid for all destinations. They can be purchased at all railways stations and can be used on bus and rail transport.

Taxis

Fares are much cheaper than in many cities. Most drivers speak some English, but you are advised to have your destination written in Chinese before taking a taxi. Taxis only accept Hong Kong dollars.

Buses

The bus network covers most places in Hong Kong with the exception of the outer islands. Most are air-conditioned and run frequently. At rush hour in the mornings and evenings, the railway is a more efficient way to travel. Exact change is required for the fare, or use an "Octopus" card.

Minibuses

Minibuses are like taxis and can stop anywhere. Pay the fee indicated by the driver either when alighting or getting on the minibus. Fares are paid in cash. However many minibuses also have an "Octopus" card swipe machine.

Trams

Trams are the cheapest form of transport. They run in the northern part of Hong Kong Island. Adult tickets are 2 HKD. Pay the exact fare with cash as you get off, or use the "Octopus" card. Change is not provided.

Ferryboats

These are the cheapest way to get across the harbor. Ferries run between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon and other outer islands. Pay cash or use the "Octopus" card.

Accommodation

All grades of accommodation are available from the most luxurious hotels down to the cheapest student hotels. All different requirements and budgets can be accommodated.

Venue Information

This is the main venue for the equestrian events. The grounds of the existing Hong Kong Sports Academy and Penfold Park were reconfigured for the Olympic jumping and dressage events.

Olympic events: Equestrian Jumping and Dressage

Address: 25 Yuan Wo Road, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong

Seating: 18,000

Paralympics: Equestrian

Opening hours: Two hours prior to the start of competition

Transport

Spectators with tickets for that day's events can take the free shuttle bus to the Hong Kong Olympic Equestrian Venue from University Railway Station on Kowloon.

During the contests, the roads around the venue will be under strict control an d cars, taxis and buses will not be allowed to stop to pick up passengers or let them off. Spectators must use the shuttle buses provided by the Olympic Games.

Shuttle buses will run every 5-10 minutes prior to competition starting time, and every 15-20 minutes during the events.

Hong Kong Olympic Equestrian Venue (Beas River)

Venue Information

This is where the cross-country competition will take place. It is situated near the Hong Kong Golf Course and has been refurbished from the existing Beas River Country Club.

Olympic events: Equestrian Cross-country

Address: No.1 Fan Kam Road, Fanling, New Territories, Hong Kong

Seating: None-numbered seats

Opening hours: Two hours prior to the start of competition

Spectator Tip

1. Visiting the Cross-country field of competition

On August 8, 2008, the field is open to spectators with tickets numbered EQ04. A free shuttle bus runs from Fanling Railway Station to Hong Kong Olympic Venue (Bea River). Visiting times are 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Note that the last shuttle bus out to the filed is at 5:45 p.m. and the last from the field to Fanling Railway Station is at 6 p.m.

Only 2,000 spectators are allowed to the visit that afternoon, so those who are interested should download an application form at http://www.equestrian2008.org before June 15, and fax it to (+852) 2107-9930 as soon as possible. Note that there is no racing that day. If your application is approved, prepare proper clothes and shoes for the 5,700-meter-long walk along the course.

2. Viewing the Horses

On August 12,2008 spectators with tickets numbered EQ05 can take a free shuttle bus stating at 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

3. Weather

All equestrian events take place outdoors so spectators should pay attention to the weather, and bring appropriate protective clothing /accessories such as hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, raincoats, etc.

4. Please remain quiet

Please remain quiet during the dressage and jumping competitions as any noise, such as talking or phones ringing, can disturb both riders and horses on the course.

5. Stay away from the horses' line of vision

Horses are easily startled. Sudden movements can frighten them and may lead to accidents.

6. Cross-county competition

The cross-county race is different from other disciplines. To fully enjoy the competition, spectators are recommended to move along the course.

7. No flash photography or laser pens

8. Latest information

Watch for the latest information on TV, radio, or check the website http://www.equestrian2008.org, or call (+852)2107-9955