Highland Reel headlines European raiding party in Hong Kong

Highland Reel, Talismanic and Blond Me are some of the leading European names selected for next month's Longines Hong Kong International races at Sha Tin.

The December 10 fixture boasts four Group One heats, with the Aidan O'Brien-trained Highland Reel picked for the Hong Kong Vase, a race he claimed two years ago and finished second in last term.

Talismanic is also in the mix for the 12-furlong event, with Andre Fabre's charge arriving on the back of victory in the Breeders' Cup Turf, while Willie Mullins' Melbourne Cup third Max Dynamite and Dermot Weld's Eziyra are also in the field.

Andrew Balding's Blond Me, the Sir Michael Stoute-trained Poet's Word and Robin Of Navan from Harry Dunlop's yard are all among the selections for the 10-furlong Hong Kong Cup, along with O'Brien's War Decree.

A strong international contingent is set to make the 14-runner line-up in the Sprint, with James Fanshawe's The Tin Man the sole British challenger, with the likes of Breeders' Cup winner Stormy Liberal going for America and French raider Signs Of Blessing.

Librisa Breeze could try to back up his British Champions Sprint triumph at Ascot in the Hong Kong Mile, while O'Brien has multiple Group One winner Roly Poly and Lancaster Bomber in contention.

David Simcock's Lightning Spear is another British contender.

Anthony Kelly, the Hong Kong Jockey Club's executive director, racing business and operations, said: "The Hong Kong International Races is world horse racing's year-end showcase and we are delighted that this year's selected runners for the four Group One races are up to the high standard of excellence we have come to expect.

"It is great to see such strong contenders from Europe, Asia and North America heading to Hong Kong."