The government of Japan conferred The Order of the Rising Sun, gold rays with neck ribbon, on the Hong Kong Jockey Club's CEO Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges on Apr. 29, the HKJC announced on Tuesday.
He received the award in recognition for his contributions in promoting the international development of Japanese horse racing and thoroughbred breeding. The Order of the Rising Sun dates back to 1875 and is awarded to people who have rendered meritorious service to Japan.
Engelbrecht-Bresges said, “I would like to dedicate this decoration to the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA), the Asian Racing Federation (ARF) and the Hong Kong Jockey Club. All three have been at the forefront of global thoroughbred horse racing, helping to shape the future and lead the way for our industry.
“It has been my privilege to work alongside industry peers in Japan for many years. I look forward to joining with my friends in Japan, and all my colleagues around the world, as together we take forward our sport and enter a new era of world-class racing.”
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