HKJC reopens off-course betting shops

Branches will reopen on non-race days for validating betting tickets and cash vouchers.

Hong Kong.- The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) has announced the reopening of its off-course betting branches as of August 29.

The Club first closed the facilities in February due to the Covid-19 pandemic. They then reopened but had to close again in July due to a spike in Covid-19 cases.

HKJC said: “After balancing various factors including the current situation of the pandemic and the gradual resumption of public services by the Government, the Club decided to re-open its OCBBs on non-racedays from 29 August.”

Betting services for racing and football matches will not be available, and matches will not be broadcast at the shops.

The reopening will be only for services such as the HKJC e-Wallet setup, opening and re-activation of betting accounts, cashing-in of vouchers or winning tickets, deposits, withdrawals and funds transfer setup.

The club said all services will be provided behind the service counter to assure social distancing. There will be mandatory body temperature scanning and customers and staff will have to wear face masks.

Hourly cleaning and sanitation routines will be carried out and hand sanitizers will be provided.