Royal Ascot: William Buick labels Notable Speech as one of a kind

GettyImages-2151429969.jpg

William Buick has labelled Notable Speech one of a kind, as the jockey bids to get his Royal Ascot ambitions off to a winning start.

The Charlie Appleby-trained horse came from the back to win the 2,000 Guineas in style and is favourite for today's St James's Palace Stakes.

One of three Group One races on the opener of the five-day meeting — there are eight in all — Notable Speech is likely to have opposition from Irish Guineas winner Rosallion, trained by Richard Hannon.

But Buick believes his mount is a class apart as it bids to emulate Frankel in doing the double in the 2,000 Guineas and the St James's.

"I don't like to compare horses, but I've never ridden one who can do what Notable Speech can do," he told the Racing Post. “He’s extraordinary and the way he won the Guineas was impressive. He had an unconventional preparation but showed a very good turn of foot in his last win at Kempton.

"He's an uncomplicated and laid-back character who does what he needs to do. So far, he's shown no chinks. It's going to be a tough race, possibly tougher than ever, but he's done everything right. Hopefully, he can put in another performance like his last."

Hannon, though, believes Rosallion can gain revenge for that Guineas defeat. "He is the best horse I've ever trained," he said. "He couldn't be any better going to Ascot and I'm looking forward to the race. If I didn't think we had a chance, I wouldn't be looking forward to it."

Some 250,000 spectators are expected through the turnstiles this week at Ascot, including the expected visit of King Charles.

There is an overall prize pot of £10million, with every race guaranteed a winning cheque of at least £110,000.

To receive the best stories in your inbox every day, click here to register for one or more newsletters from The Standard.