Regime ready to roll

Regime will set out on the road to the Vodafone Derby when having his mettle tested in the Betfred Classic Trial at Sandown on April 28.

The Highclere Thoroughbred Racing-owned son of Golan is being wound up by trainer Michael Bell ahead of his first engagement of the season.

The three-year-old finished runner-up in the Goffs Million last September before disappointing when seventh in the Racing Post Trophy.

Regime is a 33-1 shot with Stan James for the Classic on June 2.

Highclere spokesman Harry Herbert said: “He would be our leading three-year-old colt and hopefully he will become a Derby horse.

“He was second in the Goffs Million last year and that level of form should see him compete at a high level this year.

“He did run badly in the Racing Post Trophy but that was on desperate ground and he was drawn on the far side and was carried out wide all of the way.

“He is better than that and we will put a line through the run.

“He has done well physically over the winter and we aim to try him out in the Classic Trial at Sandown later this month.

“We won that race last year with Primary – who didn’t turn out to be a Derby horse – but if he goes there and puts up an impressive performance he will then go straight to Epsom.”

Also high up the pecking order is the Bell-trained Furnace, who looked in great form striding out on the Newmarket gallops.

Herbert added: “He is a top-of-the-ground horse and one we like very much.

“He will start off in a mile, three-year-old handicap on Guineas day at Newmarket and beyond that, the Britannia at Royal Ascot could be a suitable target for him.”

Ed Dunlop is another trainer to benefit from Highclere’s custom and has an intriguing sort in Formation, an unraced two-year-old son of Van Nistelrooy.

“He is a lovely, physical type who has really strengthened up and has been working well,” said Herbert.

“He moves very well and could be ready for his first run in June or July.”

Highclere have further Classic ammunition with the Sir Michael Stoute-trained Cliche, who is entered for the Boylesports Irish 1000 Guineas and the Vodafone Oaks.

Meanwhile, Treat will represent the Highclere group in the Stan James 1000 Guineas, with trainer Mick Channon favouring to send the daughter of Barathea straight to Newmarket on May 6.