The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) is a private club founded in 1884. It has since developed to become one of the largest and finest membership clubs in Asia. With over a century of brilliant history and tradition, the Club has won the respect of all walks of life in Hong Kong and attained in 2003 the Top Superbrands Award as Hong Kong's most established brand. It is also one of the largest flat racing operating organisations in the world. Apart from operating its clubhouses and flat racing, the HKJC is authorized by the HKSAR Government to conduct lottery and regulated football gaming. The Club also assists the HKSAR Government in implementing policies to combat illegal betting activities, playing its role as a responsible corporate citizen. With a history of over 120 years, the HKJC has always been respected by all sectors of the community owing to its unique not-for-profit business model. It is not owned by shareholders, and therefore no dividends are distributed. All its surplus goes back to the community through charitable donations. In the past 10 years, the Club has donated over HK$10 billion to charity, thus becoming one of the biggest charity donors in the world. The Club's unique not-for-profit business model and highly efficient management also make it the largest single taxpayer in Hong Kong. In 2008/09, the Club has paid over HK$12.976 billion in taxes or about 6.8% of all taxes collected by the Government's Inland Revenue Department. We not only provide great support to the Government's Treasury, but also play an important role in maintaining Hong Kong's low tax policy. The equestrian events of the 2008 Beijing Olympics and Paralympics will be held in Hong Kong at venues provided by the Club. In recognition of its contribution in building these venues and also committing the support of its equine hospital, Racing Laboratory and other facilities during the Games period, the Club has been officially recognised as "Outstanding Contributor, Beijing 2008 Olympic Games Equestrian Events."