William Buick rides winner as Godolphin edges Coolmore in Superlative Stakes

William Buick guided Abraham Lincoln to a razor-thin triumph in the Superlative Stakes at Newmarket on Sunday, handing Godolphin a morale-boosting scalp over arch-rivals Coolmore.

What happened in the Superlative Stakes?

Godolphin’s Abraham Lincoln, ridden by William Buick, held off a late rally from the favourite to win by a neck in the Group 3 contest. The 4-1 shot dug deep in the final furlong to edge past the Coolmore entry, who had led for most of the race. Buick kept his mount balanced under pressure, timing his challenge to perfection as the field turned for home.

The victory came at Newmarket’s July Course, where the ground was described as good to firm. Abraham Lincoln covered the mile in 1:37.24, holding off the favourite by a short head at the line. Buick admitted afterwards it had been a tight finish.

Why it matters for William Buick

This was William Buick’s first Group race win of the season, ending a run of near-misses in high-profile contests. The Newmarket track suits his style, and he has now won the Superlative Stakes for the second time in three years. Buick’s partnership with Godolphin’s stable jockey looks as strong as ever after another textbook ride.

Coolmore’s representative had started favourite on pedigree and recent form, but Buick’s patient tactics paid off. The narrow margin underlines how tight Group races have become this summer, with Buick’s split-second calls making the difference.

What comes next for Buick and Abraham Lincoln?

Abraham Lincoln heads to Goodwood next month for the Sussex Stakes, where Buick will look to build on this success. Godolphin’s yard has a strong record at the Sussex meeting, and Buick’s confidence will be sky-high after this display. The horse’s owner will now eye Group 1 targets later in the season.

Buick himself has no immediate concerns over his mount’s wellbeing. He said the winner had “just quickened up nicely” when asked about the finish. With a packed summer calendar ahead, this result gives Buick another string to his bow in the battle for top jockey honours.