William Buick: From Apprentice to Five British Classic Wins

William Buick, born on July 22, 1988, has crafted a stellar career as a flat jockey, representing both Norwegian and British heritage. His early achievements as an apprentice saw him tied for the champion apprentice jockey title with David Probert in 2008. Buick earned back-to-back Lester Awards for Apprentice Jockey of the Year in 2007 and 2008. His talent led him to join renowned trainer John Gosden’s stable from 2010 to 2014, before moving on to partner with Godolphin in 2015. Buick’s Group 1 wins span across continents, having triumphed in England, Canada, France, and other racing destinations worldwide. He has secured five British Classics, including the 2024 2000 Guineas, the 2018 Derby, and multiple St Leger victories in 2010, 2011, and 2021.

Early Career and Major Wins with Gosden

Buick’s partnership with Gosden started on a high note in March 2010 when he seized his first major victory in the Group 1 Dubai Sheema Classic at Meydan. This success with Gosden’s Dar Re Mi marked only his fourth ride for the trainer, a result that Gosden described as a strong endorsement of Buick’s skill, remarking on his style, intelligence, and balance. That same year, Buick claimed additional Group 1 wins, including the Arlington Million on Debussy and a maiden Classic win at St Leger on Arctic Cosmos. Reflecting on the St Leger victory, Buick expressed how much it meant to achieve a dream every jockey holds. He also enjoyed success with David Simcock’s young contender Dream Ahead, winning Group 1 races in both France and Newmarket.

However, Buick’s otherwise triumphant year ended painfully, as he spent New Year’s Eve hospitalised after sustaining head trauma in two falls in Dubai. Despite the initial prognosis, a closer examination revealed brain bleeding, sidelining him from racing for six weeks.

Rising Success and Personal Trials

Buick’s early successes fueled expectations for him to challenge for the flat jockeys' title in 2011. Yet, as prize money disputes arose, he backed Gosden and other trainers in boycotting races that fell short of set tariffs. Buick acknowledged that the boycott would impact his career but believed it necessary for racing's future. Despite this, he reached a career milestone with 100 British wins in a calendar year and celebrated five Group 1 victories worldwide. Notably, his partnership with Nathaniel brought memorable wins, including the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Ascot and another Classic win in the St Leger on Masked Marvel.

In 2012, Buick added nine more Group 1 titles to his record, excelling at Royal Ascot and scoring multiple wins in France and Ireland. He described winning three races in one day at Royal Ascot as a dream come true. That same season, he guided Nathaniel’s sister, Great Heavens, to an Irish Oaks victory on his birthday, rounding off an exceptional year.

Switch to Godolphin and Continued Accolades

After several successful years with Gosden, Buick signed with Godolphin in late 2014, embarking on a new chapter with one of racing’s powerhouses. In 2015, Buick’s ride on Prince Bishop brought him a career-defining victory in the $10 million Dubai World Cup. He continued to make waves at Royal Ascot and was recognised for his skill and precision, even amidst some challenging moments, such as a suspension for interference at Chantilly in 2016.

In 2017, Buick enjoyed success with Jack Hobbs in the Dubai Sheema Classic and garnered multiple wins at Royal Ascot. However, an accident later that year in Chicago resulted in a vertebra injury, putting him out of action temporarily. He made a strong comeback, securing victories at the Breeders' Cup and proving his resilience and commitment to the sport.

Triumphs and Challenges Amid Global Races

Buick’s 2018 season saw him win the Derby on his eighth attempt with Masar, a victory he later described as the pinnacle of his career. His talent continued to shine internationally, though a six-week ban for reckless riding in Hong Kong dampened the year’s close. In 2019, Buick’s season was disrupted by a fall at Ascot that led to post-head-injury syndrome, sidelining him for three months. Nevertheless, he returned to win high-stakes races, including the Dewhurst Stakes and the Vincent O'Brien National Stakes on Pinatubo.

In 2020, Buick’s consistent performances brought more victories, despite the COVID-19 pandemic restricting races. After finishing a close second in the jockeys' championship, he moved into 2021 with renewed focus, capturing significant wins like the Irish Derby and the Grand Prix de Paris on Hurricane Lane. Although he ended the season second in the championship, he was later named 2021 Flat Jockey of the Year.

Personal Life and Early Influences

Buick, fluent in four languages, was born into an equestrian family in Norway, with a father celebrated as an eight-time Scandinavian champion jockey. Encouraged by his family’s background, he started riding early and spent summers training under notable British trainers. Although his school attendance was affected by morning rides, his father supported his passion. Buick joined Andrew Balding as an apprentice, quickly making a name for himself with his tenacity and skill, impressing legendary trainers and mentors alike.

Today, Buick’s story is one of remarkable perseverance, evolving from a young jockey with dreams to an international champion whose resilience and drive continue to make him a standout figure in the racing world.