The Hong Kong Jockey Club has taken a leaf out of the Big Tobacco school of addiction and had a family day out at Sha Tin yesterday. Typically anti-gambling groups have protested the day, criticising the Jockey Club's excuse that it was a day for families to celebrate China's National Day by correctly pointing out the races were held 2 days after the said day.

Nevertheless I wholeheartedly endorse the HK Jockey Club's move. Firstly it's great for the kids to see where Mummy and especially Daddy are pissing their hard-earned dollars instead of investing in their children's education and future. Secondly given the HK Jockey Club is effectively also Hong Kong's social welfare agency and white elephant creator, the little 'uns may as well give something back to to Hong Kong. Can't be selfish and all. Thirdly it could be worse: they could be forced to go watch executions instead (thanks Enzo for the tip). Lastly I'd much rather they were out at Sha Tin rather than swarming over Ocean Park with the millions of Mainlanders whom descended upon the place yesterday. Why you would build a huge fun park on the side of a mountain without ramps for, say, strollers, beats me. But it was built with a kind donation from the Jockey Club*.

Thanks kids.

* _{As compared to HK Disneyland, which has chewed up over US$4 billion of HK Government money.}