Ed Bethell targeting international glory with Regional in Al Quoz Sprint on Dubai World Cup night

LONDON: Royal Ascot-winning trainer Ed Bethell is set to chase his first international Group 1 victory as his star sprinter Regional lines up for the Al Quoz Sprint on Dubai World Cup night next weekend.

Within just four years of earning his trainer’s license, Bethell has already made a name for himself on the British racing scene, securing a Group 1 victory in the Haydock Sprint Cup with Regional and a Royal Ascot win in the Britannia Stakes with Mickley.

He was also on the verge of another major triumph when Point Lynas crossed the line first at the York Ebor Festival, only to lose the race following a stewards’ inquiry.

Now, Bethell is looking to extend his success beyond British shores, with Regional primed for the prestigious six-furlong sprint at Meydan Racecourse next Saturday. 

Regional has been a revelation under Bethell’s training since being bought as a horse-in-training for just 3,500 guineas ($4,750) at Tattersalls.

Since then, he has finished in the prize money in 16 of his 17 starts for Bethell and his owners, amassing over £575,000 ($744,000) in earnings. His resume includes a Group 1 win at Haydock and a runner-up finish in the King Charles III Stakes at Royal Ascot in 2024.

Speaking to Great British Racing International, Bethell expressed his admiration for the sprinter and his confidence heading into Dubai.

“Regional is incredibly special. Any horse to win you a Group 1 is special, but I guess it’s a rags-to-riches story, and I probably will never find another like him. He had a big break, and his work has been really good coming into this race. He has been absolutely great,” Bethell said.

The 31-year-old trainer is no stranger to the Al Quoz Sprint, having previously had Moss Gill contest the