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| Staff Writer |
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Britain's chances in Saturday's Al Quoz Sprint took another hit on Monday as Annaf, along with Regional, had to withdraw from the US$1.5 million race due to travel problems.
Following a late setback at home, Ed Bethell decided to withdraw Sprint Cup winner Regional. Consequently, Mick Appleby faced a similar situation with last month's Group Two winner and had to pull out as well.
"He picked something up on the flight over and was taken ill with a respiratory infection," Appleby said. "It's frustrating and disappointing but he's going to be fine, so that's the main thing.
"He'll come back and we'll be looking at the sprints at Royal Ascot - whether he has a run before will depend on how he is when he comes back."
Annaf had hoped to secure another significant prize after winning nearly US$11,95,680.15 in the 1351 Turf Sprint at Riyadh's Saudi Cup card. While Annaf's absence is disappointing for Appleby, the trainer will still have a presence at the Meydan card with Dubai Gold Cup contender Roberto Escobarr.
Regional, who hadn't raced since winning the Group One at Haydock last September, was scheduled for his first start. However, Bethell announced that his 6YO wouldn't be making the trip to Dubai.
"He's all right but he didn't scope 100 per cent. It's one of those unfortunate things, we've got to move on – don't look back, look forward," the trainer said.
When asked about Regional's potential return to racing, Bethell responded, "He has been invited to compete in the Chairman's Sprint Prize in Hong Kong on 28th April, and he could be well-prepared for that event."
"But I don't think the Sha Tin track will suit him so I imagine I'll probably just bring him back for the Duke of York Stakes at the Dante meeting.
"Ultimately it may actually play to his advantage as he may have an international campaign in the autumn."
Regional secured Bethell's inaugural Group One triumph by defeating Shouldvebeenaring by a narrow margin in the Sprint Cup at Haydock last September.