WITH the World Cup taking centre stage in the sporting world at present, the Hong Kong Jockey Club have framed a unique eight-runner race at Happy Valley, symbolising the eight remaining nations who have reached the quarter finals of the tournament.

Sporting the country’s national colours, the eight contenders will line-up in the aptly named Eight To Glory, a handicap over the extended mile at 1.10pm.

Finding the winner, however, looks more difficult than naming the winner of the World Cup, with very little to choose between any of the gallopers.

It may pay to take a chance with Lucky Year, who brings strong Sha Tin form to the Valley for the first time and sports the colours of Belgium in the line-up.

Earlier on the card, trainer Frankie Lor, who broke a long losing sequence with last Sunday’s impressive Sha Tin winner Solid State, can strike again with BEAUTY SHOW in the five-furlong Volley Handicap (12.30pm).

The son of Shalaa has plenty in his favour, with his fitness, condition, and recent form at a premium and he should take plenty of beating.

Well-handicapped ROBOT LUCKY STAR has an ideal set-up, following a recent unlucky defeat, in the five-furlong Breakaway Handicap (2.45pm).

The Australian import was ridden cold from an outside draw last month, and found himself conceding too much ground before finishing strongly in fifth behind Sky Cap.

With gate three a major boost to his chances, he is mapped to sit much closer to the frenetic early pace this time and then prove too strong for his rivals in the closing stages.

POINTERS

Beauty Show                   12.30pm           Happy Valley

Robot Lucky Star             2.45pm           Happy Valley