Regime enjoys Epsom spin

Michael Bell has taken the same route with Regime as he did with his 2005 Vodafone Derby winner Motivator and given his runner an advance taste of Epsom.

Two years ago, Bell brought Motivator to the ’Breakfast With The Stars’ open morning at the Downs track and while he described Regime as a different type of animal, he believes he will be all the better for this experience.

A best-priced 20-1 with William Hill and Betfred for the Derby, the Highclere Thoroughbred Racing-owned colt was well beaten by current favourite Authorized on soft ground in last autumn’s Racing Post Trophy but started off this season in good style at Sandown.

Regime was partnered in his work by last year’s Derby-winning rider Martin Dwyer, who has been given the leg-up with regular partner Jamie Spencer suspended, and he was just nudged out to shade his companion Rawdon at the winning post.

“Basically today was just to familiarise himself with Epsom and particularly Tattenham Corner, so we were not finding out about his ability we were just giving him a chance to get used to the place and I was very happy with him,” said Bell.

“He didn’t need to run again after the Sandown Classic Trial and as a neutral I think you would have to be quite impressed that day.

“He came from last to first in less than a furlong and Sandown is a very difficult track to look impressive on.

“Bearing in mind he does not do a lot when he hits the front, I think he is a live chance in this race.”

Bell is under less pressure this time than when saddling the favourite two years ago, and added: “I think having gone through the experience with Motivator is standing us in good stead.

“Motivator was quite highly strung and we knew he had phenomenal ability, it was a question of just keeping a lid on the horse – that was the object.

“This horse needs a bit of digging in the belly, he’s not lazy but is a different type altogether.”

Dwyer said: “It was unfortunate for Jamie but I am delighted to have a ride in the Derby and one with a live chance.

“It was the first time I had sat on him and it was not serious work, he was just having a canter round. He moved upsides the lead horse, we just let him have a look around and I was very pleased with him.

“He is well-balanced, relaxed and calm and you need that on Derby Day with everything going on.

“He is a bit laid-back but as he showed at Sandown, when you get hold of him he had a big finish. I’m looking forward to it and I will be ringing Frankie (Dettori, Authorized’s rider) on the way home to tell him how well he worked!”