Jockey battle heats up at Sandown races

With the 2024/25 season nearing its close, Craig Williams and Blake Shinn are locked in a close fight for the Melbourne Jockeys’ Premiership, separated by just four wins.

Both riders resumed from their respective layoffs at Sandown last week, with Williams notching a winner to reduce Shinn’s earlier eight-win lead. He added another at Caulfield, closing the gap to just four, with five meetings left until the season concludes on July 31.

Shinn, though winless in his two comeback meetings, placed second twice at Caulfield. At Sandown on Wednesday, Williams will ride in all eight races, while Shinn is engaged in seven.

Bookmakers see Shinn holding a slight advantage, with four of his rides opening as favourites. Williams will partner three favourites but also jumps aboard $26 shot Artistic Genius in the Stow Storage Solutions Handicap (1300m).

Shinn’s best hope is Ad Vitam in the Sportsbet Jockey Watch Plate (1400m), while Williams is strongly fancied aboard Ten Deep in the Sportsbet Race Replays Handicap (1400m).

“It’s a great competition,” Williams commented. “If you ride more winners than Blake, you win. If he rides more, he wins. Simple as that.”

He added that their rivalry has been a motivating factor throughout their careers. “We’ve made each other better over the years, from Hong Kong to here. That hasn’t changed even with a premiership on the line.”

Looking ahead, Williams said he’s optimistic: “I’ve got good rides coming up — they just need to show up and perform.”

For those looking to back their preferred rider or explore betting opportunities, check out the best options at this Australian betting site list.