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| Staff Writer |
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Ed Bethell is keeping a keen eye on the forecast as he prepares stable star Regional for a tilt at the Gr.1 Coolmore Wootton Bassett Nunthorpe Stakes at York's Ebor festival next week.
The six-year-old sprinter is set to renew rivalries with Royal Ascot conqueror Asfoora, trained by Henry Dwyer, and the precocious Big Evs from Michael Appleby's yard in what promises to be a thrilling renewal of the 5f showpiece later this month.
Bethell, who saddled Regional to a breakthrough Group One success in last year's Sprint Cup, is hoping the recent spell of fine weather continues on the Knavesmire.
"Regional's in great form and we're keen to run, but he does prefer a sound surface," said Bethell. "We'll be monitoring conditions closely in the lead-up to the race."
While Bethell is still establishing himself on the international stage, his Nunthorpe rivals have already made their mark abroad.
Appleby, known for his prowess with sprinters, has enjoyed success in the Middle East, most notably with Danzeno, who claimed the 2019 Jebel Ali Sprint.
Australian handler Dwyer has also tasted victory in the region, with Hats Off To Larry landing a valuable handicap at the 2022 Saudi Cup meeting.
Regional will be bidding to improve on last year's fifth-place finish in the Nunthorpe, when he was beaten by shock winner Live In The Dream.
"He's a year older and wiser now," Bethell added. "The experience of last year should stand him in good stead."
Big Evs enters the Nunthorpe fray on the back of an impressive victory in the Gr.2 Molecomb Stakes at Goodwood. Appleby believes his youngster is ready for the step up to Group One company.
"He's taken his racing well and the form of his Ascot run looks strong," said Appleby. "We're excited to see how he measures up against the older horses."
Asfoora's connections are eyeing further international targets following her Royal Ascot triumph. Dwyer hinted at potential raids on rich Middle Eastern sprints in the coming months.
"The Nunthorpe is our immediate focus, but we've got one eye on Dubai and Saudi Arabia for the winter," the Australian trainer revealed.
As the countdown to York's showpiece meeting continues, all eyes will be on the weather. With three top-class sprinters set to do battle, the stage is set for a Nunthorpe to remember – provided the rain stays away.