October 28 - The GAC, a global provider of shipping, logistics and marine services, has kicked off its second football E-tipping contest, following the success of the inaugural 'Kick-it with GAC FA Cup' competition.

Now in its third year as the official ESPN STAR Sports broadcast sponsor of the FA Cup in Asia, GAC is looking forward to an exciting 2010-11 season. The 'Kick-it' competition was launched last year as a fun way of using the global appeal of 'The Beautiful Game' to touch base with existing and potential customers around the world. The success of that first contest prompted its return for the current FA Cup season.

The contest kicks off with the first round (proper) on November 6th. It will be run on-line, and participants must sign-up with their full details and answer a question before they are invited to 'tip' who they think will win specific matches. Throughout the season, participants will be asked questions and for their predictions for result of games, with points being awarded for accurate tips as entrants progress through each round, all the way through to the final in May 2011.

Regional prizes will be awarded for each round of the contest, and there will also be special prizes of signed memorabilia on offer to fans of GAC-sponsored teams Sheffield United and Crystal Palace. (And if Coventry City wins the cup in 2011, the editorial director of HLPFI will be hosting a party in central London!)

For the grand prize, participants stand to win two FA Cup Final tickets, along with two economy return airfares to London and two nights' accommodation. Alternatively, the winner may choose to donate to the Sailors ' Society, an international charity dedicated to enhancing the well being of seafarers throughout the world.

The competition is open to all shipping, logistics and marine professionals as well as Sheffield United and Crystal Palace fans.

For more information, go to www.facup.gac.com

And wouldn't it be just lovely to see FC United of Manchester get through the first and second rounds and then get drawn against their illustrious namesakes in the third round.