Atzeni Has High Hopes in HK

Andrea Atzeni is hoping to be the hat-trick hero at Happy Valley today when Colourful King and Crystal Powerful both go for three wins on the spin.

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Sardinian Atzeni, sitting third in the jockeys' rankings with 45 winners for the season, has another strong book of in-form rides to enhance his tally.

Colourful King is his mount in the feature Class 2 Seoul Handicap (1000m), winner of both his starts at Happy Valley since a promising Hong Kong debut at Sha Tin.

He dived late to beat Youthful Spirits by a nose in a Class 3 over 1000m in March but increased the margin by two lengths when flashing clear of him again in another course and distance Class 3.

His sights are raised against some seasoned rivals, but David Eustace's charge – a dual winner at Sandown in Australia before shipping over – is totally unexposed and should have plenty more to offer.

"He's thrived since David switched him to the Valley," said Atzeni. "I thought he was really impressive again last time and he's definitely improved since his last run.