Regal Reality headlines double for Dettori

Regal Reality took a big step forward to land the Bonhams Thoroughbred Stakes at Goodwood and help Frankie Dettori towards a double on his return from a riding suspension.

Having just his third run, the Sir Michael Stoute-trained colt was sent off at 10-1 in a field of seven.

Britannia Handicap winner Ostilio was keen in front and along with Chief Ironside they had an eight-length break on the field at one stage.

But with a furlong to run Dettori could be spotted breaking out of the pack and the result had a sense of inevitability about it from some way out.

The two favourites, Threading and Aid an O’Brien’s Three and fourpence, were very disappointing.

Dettori was able to take things easy in the final strides, as Ostilio battled back past Chief Ironside on the rail to claim second, a length and three-quarters behind the winner.

The Italian smiled: “I was told he had a good turn of foot, but when I got a bit far behind I thought ‘this will test it!’.

“He’s got some serious gears, it took about five strides for him to hit top gear and then he took off. When the turbo kicked in I thought I’d get them easily. He won cosily in the end.

“He’s definitely smart, Sir Michael was very keen when I spoke to him. He put some nice horses to bed in a good manner and I’m sure he’s got a bright future.

“Perhaps he could come back here for the Celebration Mile, he’s got many options now and I’ll leave that to Cheveley Park and Sir Michael.”

Dettori made it a brace of wins later on the card when teaming up with Amanda Perrett through Desert Path in the Maltsmiths Handicap.

The 12-1 shot burst clear a furlong out and won by a length and three-quarters from Sergio Leone. Dettori said: “I’ve had a great afternoon, two winners and a second – it’s been good.”

Picture: Getty. Frankie Dettori leaps from his mount after riding Regal Reality to win the Bonhams Thoroughbred Stakes.