For many in Hong Kong's equestrian community, the post-Olympics period is just as important as the Games themselves. There is no point in bringing some of the world's best to Hong Kong if nothing remains afterwards.
The promise of an Olympic legacy is a requirement for the host city, although the gift of continuation differs from one Olympics to another. In Hong Kong, there are worries whether hosting the Games will be a turning point for the sport.
From the Hong Kong Jockey Club, the public riding schools will receive the footing used in the Olympic arenas at Sha Tin and the obstacles built for the showjumping. Despite the welcomed upgrades, it is unlikely these legacies will increase the number of training arenas or help reduce the number of people on a near two-year waiting list for weekend riding lessons.
'A permanent riding centre,' said one member of the equestrian community when asked what an Olympic legacy meant to him.
'More arenas, more shows,' said another.
'Horses,' offered a third, referring to the purchase of warm-bloods, as opposed to the retired racehorses that are used by the majority of riders.
