The end of nearly two centuries of horse racing leaves a generation of seniors grappling with the loss of community, routine, and purpose.
SINGAPORE: Cheers erupt from the grandstands of the Singapore Turf Club every half hour as aging punters cheer on their chosen horses. “Zao! (Run), Sa Ho! (Number Three),” they shout in Hokkien, fists raised in the air as the horses thunder toward the finish line.
The Turf Club, with its discarded betting slips, cigarette smoke, and echoes of excitement, has long been a haven for these elderly enthusiasts—mostly retired Chinese men seeking solace from the monotony of daily life. But this chapter in Singapore’s history is coming to a close.
On October 5, 2024, the Turf Club will host its final race, ending nearly two centuries of horse racing in Singapore and leaving a void in the lives of its patrons.
A Community at Risk
“Horse betting offers a sense of purpose and connection for these seniors,” explains Dr. Andy Ho, a social scientist at Nanyang Technological University (NTU). “Losing this community space could significantly impact their mental well-being.”
Singapore’s rapid evolution into a “super-aged” society—with over 20% of its population projected to be over 65 by 2026—makes it essential to consider the needs of the elderly. Yet, dwindling attendance and an aging demographic have contributed to the sport’s decline, with weekly spectatorship dropping from 10,000 in 2010 to just 2,600 in 2023.
A Look Back
Once a bustling hub in Bukit Timah, the Turf Club drew crowds of 60,000 during its heyday in the 1980s. Overflowing car parks and lively grandstands characterized an atmosphere akin to a festival. Today, the quieter Kranji racecourse tells a different story—rows of empty seats and quieter patrons immersed in their betting guides.
For many, this is more than just gambling. “It’s my way of passing the time,” says 74-year-old Ng Kwang Hock. Another punter, 72-year-old Ng Choon Kee, laments, “I’ll be very sad when it closes. I’ve been coming here for five decades.”
Beyond the Bets
While critics might view horse betting as a vice, for these seniors, it’s a rare opportunity for mental stimulation and social interaction. Research suggests that such activities help them combat feelings of isolation and marginalization.
“It’s not just about the gambling,” says Sam Lee, who runs a drink stall at the club. “It’s about the friendships and the memories built here over decades.”
The Turf Club also provides an illusion of control for its patrons. They analyze race guides, scrutinize horses, and engage in lively debates—a stark contrast to the sense of powerlessness they often feel at home.
What’s Next?
The closure raises questions about how to engage this generation meaningfully. Dr. Ho suggests deploying social workers and volunteer welfare organizations (VWOs) to introduce alternative activities, such as storytelling, culinary arts, and light exercise.
“These seniors need options that keep them active and socially connected,” says Dr. Ho. “The Turf Club’s closure is an opportunity to redirect their energies into fulfilling pursuits.”
A Race Against Time
As Singapore progresses, it’s crucial not to leave its elderly behind. The Turf Club’s closure is a poignant reminder of the need to balance modernization with compassion for those who built the nation’s foundation.
For now, the punters savor their final days at the Turf Club, clinging to their routines and camaraderie. They are, like the horses they cheer for, running their last race—searching for purpose in a rapidly changing world.
