Elite Status, who missed out on Royal Ascot, is making a comeback in the Fidelity Energy Hackwood Stakes at Newbury on Saturday. Trainer Karl Burke is excited to see his colt return to action after withdrawing from the Commonwealth Cup due to an injury. Despite missing out on Newmarket and the July Cup, Burke believes the Hackwood course suits Elite Status, who performed well there earlier this year.
Burke is hopeful that Elite Status will perform well on Saturday and then aim for the Group One Sprint Cup at Haydock. Among his potential rivals in the Group Three contest are Regional, Diligent Harry, James's Delight, and Lake Forest. Last year's winner, Commanche Falls, trained by Michael Dods, also entered the race. Ed Bethell's speedster Regional is also a contender after skipping the July Cup due to ground conditions. Clive Cox has entered Diligent Harry and James's Delight, while William Haggas looks likely to saddle Lake Forest.