William Buick
After losing out to Oisin Murphy in a titanic tussle for the jockeys’ championship two years ago,
William won his first title last season. The 35-year-old is again setting the pace. That’s despite Godolphin trainer Charlie Appleby, William’s retained stable, having a below-par season by his exceptionally-high standards.
The pair did team up to win the Lockinge Stakes with now-retired Modern Games at Newbury in May but that remains William’s sole British Group 1 victory this season.
A lack of big-race success hasn’t stopped the flow of winners. Appleby has been responsible for the lion’s share but George Boughey, Charlie Hills and Andrew Balding have all been significant supporters.
William has ridden winners for more than 30 different trainers in all and it’s clear he will not allow anyone to take his crown without a huge fight.