Craig Williams keeping Premiership options open

Craig Williams is still a genuine contender for this season’s Victorian Metropolitan Jockeys’ Premiership, and it could affect his travel plans. The multiple-time premiership winner is considering delaying a trip to Ukraine if he closes the gap on Blake Shinn, who currently leads the standings but is sidelined with injury. With 12 wins separating the pair, Williams is staying active across Melbourne and Brisbane to keep his hopes alive.

Williams' itinerary includes rides at Doomben, Mornington, Sandown, and Flemington over the coming weeks. He’s also eyeing a possible appearance on Tatt’s Tiara day at Eagle Farm, depending on what rides become available. His overseas travel plans with Andrew Mallyon—who will join an ambulance corps in Ukraine—may be pushed back if Williams remains within reach of Shinn’s lead.

“All the leading riders all look towards the spring, and you all look at what it takes to get there, but there’s no doubt I’ve always had a focus about the championship,” Williams said.

“It’s one of those goals that every rider strives to go for and it will come under consideration when my manager and I work out our scheduling for the next period of time.”

Williams’ history on Flemington’s ‘Finals Day’ could play a role in his title pursuit, having had a six-win haul on one such day previously.

“There were people talking about the premiership at Christmas time when Blake had a holiday and I rode a few winners,” Williams said.

“I just want to ride a winner every day I go to the races.

“Blake set himself a goal and has been so committed to that through the whole of Victoria and you can see his success this year.

“I don’t feel like I need a break, but everyone keeps saying I do as at the moment I’m just loving what I’m doing.

“I have loved flying into Hong Kong and having success and when you have success you want the next one and the next one.

“I’m really happy where I am at the moment and loving what I’m doing.”

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