Mark Six Mayhem

The Mark Six jackpot has reached HK$68 million (about US$8.7 million), and while it doesn't compare with the size of the mammoth lottery bonanzas seen in North America, it's big enough to create a buzz among Hong Kongers.

Even I bought a few tickets, something I've never done in all my years here. Gambling in general never made much sense to me, and I consider the lottery to be a tax on people who are bad at math.

Then again, nothing ventured, nothing gained. With tickets only HK$5 apiece, it doesn't hurt to try one's luck when this much jing is on the line.

So I dropped by a Jockey Club outlet (the only place in Hong Kong that one can buy tickets) to see what folks were up to. To describe the place as sedate would be a gross understatement.

People weren't saying much, but the atmosphere was electric, with queues at all betting windows at least 25 deep and more bodies pouring into the room at a steady clip. It was fascinating to watch people spending the money in their heads.

Those finished with their business were routed through a side exit to prevent the main entrance staircase from becoming jammed. I picked my numbers, crossed my fingers like everyone else in the joint and then hit the street.

Do I think I'll win? Not bloody likely, given the astronomical odds against it. But as the man said, you can't win if you don't have a ticket.

If nothing else, I had the chance to experience that favourite Hong Kong pastime, even if it wasn't on the ponies. One thing is certain: it won't become a habit.

In a few hours I'll find out whether we're filthy rich, or just paid our share of tax.

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