Regional Teams Achieve Breakthrough in Group 1 at Sprint Cup Report

A Tearful Triumph: Trainer Ed Bethell Celebrates Group One Victory with Regional

In a heartwarming display of triumph and emotion, trainer Ed Bethell found himself fighting back tears after his horse, Regional, secured his first-ever Group One success in the prestigious Betfair Sprint Cup at Haydock.

Less than three years ago, Bethell took over the training license from his father James, who had dedicated over four decades to the sport before passing on the reins. Since then, Regional has emerged as a remarkable flagbearer for Bethell’s yard.

The journey towards this momentous victory began when Regional was acquired for a mere bargain price of £3,500 in the summer of 2021. The five-year-old gelding has since rewarded his connections with three previous wins – two of which were achieved at Haydock.

A Stepping Stone Towards Glory

Prior to his Group One glory at Haydock, Regional showcased immense potential by winning the Listed Achilles Stakes at the same venue back in June. Following this promising performance, he ventured into elite company in last month’s Nunthorpe at York.

Although finishing fifth in that race, it was an encouraging result that motivated Bethell to give it another shot by stretching him out over an extra furlong. And what a decision it turned out to be!

An Emotional Triumph

As Callum Rodriguez guided the ten-to-one shot towards victory at Haydock, Trainer Ed Bethel couldn’t hold back tears as he celebrated achieving something beyond his wildest dreams. Bethell expressed his immense gratitude towards Barbara Jones, the dedicated rider who ensures Regional’s prime condition through her unwavering commitment.

In a heartfelt statement, Bethell humbly acknowledged, “I never thought it would happen – winning a Group One. A huge thank you has to go to Barbara Jones and the rest of my team at home. I’m just the lucky one with my name on the ticket.”

A Horse That Exceeds Expectations

Regional’s meteoric rise in performance can be credited to his exceptional team back at the stables. The horse was initially purchased with modest expectations of merely winning any race; however, he has surpassed all predictions and taken his owners on an extraordinary journey.

Bethell emphasized that Regional’s ability to travel comfortably within his comfort zone contributed significantly to their success at Haydock: “He was able to find his rhythm today, unlike in the Nunthorpe where everything felt rushed.” Despite initial concerns about pacing, Regional proved himself as one of the last horses off the bridle.

Firming Up Future Plans

As Trainer Ed Bethell revels in this remarkable victory, he intends to let things settle before making any concrete plans for Regional’s future races. While there is talk of potential ventures across American tracks, Bethel remains focused on assessing how well his stable star copes after such an intense event before deciding on further competitions.

“Genuinely,” says Bethel amidst joyful disbelief,”These are days I hope will propel our yard forward and help us achieve greatness.”

Rodriguez Claims First Group One Victory

Jockey Callum Rodriguez also celebrated a personal milestone by securing his first-ever Group One triumph with Regional. Reflecting on the exceptional journey they have shared this year, Rodriguez commended the horse’s syndicate for their unwavering support. The smooth performance at Haydock showcased their remarkable partnership.

Disappointments and Lessons Learned

While celebrations filled the air for Bethell’s team, disappointment hung heavy over Julie Camacho’s Shaquille – the 11-10 favorite aiming to secure a top-level hat-trick following wins in the Commonwealth Cup and July Cup. Unfortunately, Shaquille failed to live up to expectations.