Virus-hit Hong Kong racing gallops on behind closed doors

It was a surreal meeting at Sha Tin in front of just 307 spectators, made up entirely of owners and guests, with only the horses not wearing masks

HONG KONG (AFP) - The bell sounds as 11 runners in the Gold Cup break from the stalls at Hong Kong's famous Sha Tin racecourse.

But there is no customary roar from 30,000 excited punters lining the home straight. This year the grandstands are empty.