ST JOHNS, Antigua, May 28, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- Sun, sand, sea, and sexy women. The hotter the climate -- the hotter the women, according to online sports book Intertops.com.
The world's most beautiful women assemble in Panama City next week to battle for the coveted Miss Universe 2003 crown.
Bet makers at Intertops.com have been 'busy' studying the form -- and the going is good.
The belle of the ball is Dominican Republic delicacy Amelia Vega who, at 8/1, is the favorite to win.
Other 'hot' favorites include Miss Columbia (8/1), Miss Israel (10/1), Miss Puerto Rico (10/1), Miss Greece (12/1) and Miss Brazil (12/1).
The first serious contender from a cooler climate is Slovak Republic law student Petra Mokrosova at 13/1, according to Intertops.com.
At the other end of the scale, it looks like the Lord of the Rings has had a negative effect on New Zealand contender Sharee Adams who -- at 150/1 -- is more Hobbit than hot stuff.
Other 'less than fragrant' wallflowers include Miss Belize (125/1), Miss Philippines (100/1), Miss Malaysia (100/1), and Miss Curacao (100/1). Intertops.com predicts they will be returning to their day jobs soon.
"Judging the form for Miss Universe has been a tough job for everyone here at Intertops.com but -- somehow -- we managed to get through it," said Chief Bet Manager Michael Maerz.
"We have worked our way through all 72 entrants and it looks like hot weather equals hot women. Which is great for Intertops.com because our company is based in the Caribbean.
"Miss Universe is one of the biggest and most popular television events in the world and a live broadcast means it is perfect for a flutter. It's difficult to pick the winner which is why the odds are great," he said.
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About Intertops.com
Intertops.com (http://www.intertops.com) is the Internet's first and largest sports betting site that also offers a full range of online casino games and more than 200 betting options daily. Incorporated and fully licensed in St. John's, Intertops.com uses state-of-the-art software solutions and works with world leaders in electronic commerce in order to provide traditional betting and gaming elements in a secure online environment. With the Web's lowest deposit and minimum bet requirements, Intertops.com makes the online betting experience fun and exciting for novice players and serious bettors alike.