William Buick Targets Belmont Derby‑Oaks Double at Saratoga

William Buick set his sights on a historic Belmont Derby‑Oaks double at Saratoga, announcing on 4 July 2026 that he and trainer Charlie Appleby will target both Grade‑1 races in the same meet.

The Belmont Derby and the Belmont Oaks are the premier turf events for three‑year‑old colts and fillies at Belmont Park, each offering a $1 million purse. A successful run at Saratoga later in the summer would give the pair a rare double, a feat achieved by only a handful of jockey‑trainer combos in recent memory.

Appleby revealed that his stable has two promising runners: a colt named **Midas Touch** for the Derby and a filly called **Silver Lining** for the Oaks. Buick, who rode Midas Touch to a second‑place finish in the Dewhurst last month, will partner the colt on 12 July, while he will mount Silver Lining on 14 July. Both horses have shown strong late‑season form, and Appleby believes the Saratoga turf will suit their running styles.

Buick, now 31, is chasing his first Belmont Derby win after a series of near‑misses in the UK and the United States. A victory would add a coveted American classic to his résumé, complementing his recent Group 1 successes at Royal Ascot. An Oaks win would also cement his reputation for handling top‑class fillies, a skill he displayed when he rode **Elysian Dream** to a Group 1 triumph in June.

Saratoga’s July heat often tests stamina, and the tight turns demand precise timing. Buick will need to balance a forward‑pressing ride on Midas Touch with a more patient approach on Silver Lining, whose trainer plans to keep her off a fast early pace. Competitors include veteran jockey **Mike Smith**, who will be aboard the favorite **Stormfront** in the Derby, and rising star **Rachael Black**, slated for the Oaks on **Moonlit Grace**.

Appleby confirmed a final prep run for Midas Touch in the Grade‑2 **Saratoga Stakes** on 6 July, while Silver Lining will contest the **Saratoga Fillies’ Trial** on 8 July. Buick will ride both prep races, giving him a chance to fine‑tune tactics before the big days. If the double falls into place, the duo could finish the Saratoga meet with two Grade‑1 victories, a boost for their championship points and a strong statement ahead of the Breeders’ Cup.

Saratoga’s summer crowd loves a bold narrative, and Buick’s pursuit of the double is already generating buzz on social media. Ticket sales for the July 12‑14 card have surged, with many spectators hoping to witness a potential historic moment. The jockey’s charismatic presence and Appleby’s training acumen make the pair a compelling storyline for both casual fans and seasoned racing enthusiasts.

A win in either race would give Buick valuable points toward the Eclipse Award for Outstanding Jockey, while a double could tip the scales in his favor for the award’s final tally. Appleby’s stable would also gain significant earnings, reinforcing their status as a transatlantic powerhouse.

The Belmont Derby‑Oaks double remains a lofty ambition, but with Buick’s experience and Appleby’s meticulous preparation, the plan feels within reach. Saratoga’s July meet promises high drama, and all eyes will be on the jockey‑trainer duo as the dates approach.