Ed Bethell is thrilled with the progress of his stable star Regional after a successful workout ahead of the King Charles III Stakes at Royal Ascot. The six-year-old, a Group One winner in last season's Sprint Cup, finished a close second in the Greenlands Stakes at the Curragh last month. Bethell believes the drop back to five furlongs at the big meeting will suit Regional perfectly.
Bethell stated, "Regional worked really well this morning and we are all pleased with his performance. We hope the weather holds up and he can compete in the King Charles III Stakes. He needed the race at the Curragh to get back in form, and I believe he is now ready for this level of competition."
The trainer is optimistic about Regional's chances at Ascot, noting that the stiff five furlongs will be ideal for his horse. While Regional also has an entry in the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes, Bethell is leaning towards running him in the King Charles III Stakes.
Additionally, Bethell will be sending Mickley, a three-year-old with two wins this year, to the Britannia Stakes. Mickley has shown promise with victories at Southwell and Doncaster, and Bethell is hopeful that he can perform well in the competitive race.
Bethell expressed his excitement about having horses with a chance at Royal Ascot, emphasising the hard work of his team in preparing for the prestigious event. Despite acknowledging the tough competition, Bethell is confident that both Regional and Mickley can deliver strong performances.