The Dubai Duty Free Mill Reef Stakes at Newbury concluded with a poignant atmosphere, as the venue paid homage to the late Ian Balding. In a race that echoed the legacy of the famed Park Stables resident, Kingsclere‑trained jockey William Buick rode Nabati to a narrow victory over Andrew Balding’s filly Jolivette, delivering an emotional finish that resonated with the crowd.
Just over a week after finishing third in the Flying Scotsman Stakes at Doncaster—where Balding’s Forbidden Fire had bested him—Charlie Appleby’s three‑year‑old Nabati reversed fortunes. Entering the Group Two contest as a 7‑4 favourite, the colt was dropped back to six furlongs and, after a fierce battle, edged out his rivals by a short‑head. The win was a testament to Appleby’s tactical acumen and the horse’s adaptability, proving that a change in distance could unlock hidden speed. The race also featured Michael Dods’ 5‑4 favourite Arapaho Gold, a Gimcrack‑winning colt who had previously bested Nabati over the same course and distance in July.
Though Arapaho Gold finished close behind, his presence added depth to an already thrilling finish, underscoring the quality of the field. Yet the post‑race narrative centered on the Balding family and the young jockey who seemed to have earned their respect at the prestigious Hampshire academy. Buick reflected on the personal significance of the day: “I was twelve the first summer I visited Kingsclere, and the memories are vivid.
Watching the footage of Ian discussing Mill Reef before the race brought back a flood of great moments. I felt incredibly fortunate to be there.” He continued, “When I woke up this morning I sensed the race would be quick, but knowing it was in Ian Balding’s honor, I wanted to give it my all, as if he were watching us.” Buick imagined Balding’s approval, saying, “I think he would have been pleased to see us battle from the furlong post to the line, perhaps even nodding in approval.
A dead‑heat would have been perfect, but winning the race feels wonderful.” For Appleby, Nabati’s triumph marked a back‑to‑back success in the Mill Reef Stakes, following the victory of Words Of Truth a year earlier. Buick added insight into the race’s dynamics: “The horse was a bit awkward out of the stalls, so we adjusted our plan and brought him forward earlier than intended. He fought hard, as he should, and found a good rhythm.” He noted that the horse’s previous run at Doncaster had been relatively easy, crediting Appleby’s strategic call and Nabati’s willingness to repay that confidence. Balding, speaking about the valiant effort of his runner‑up Jolivette, praised the filly’s determination: “I was delighted with her performance.
She gave everything but just fell short. She’s a wonderful filly, capable on any ground, and truly a star.” He expressed gratitude to Newbury and Dubai Duty Free for attaching his father’s name to the race, adding, “It was almost the perfect result—Will’s victory was a great tribute, and he’s a true Kingsclere boy.” Meanwhile, apprentice jockey Jack Nicholls continued his impressive partnership with Miss Yechance, securing the biggest win of his career in the Dubai International Airport World Trophy Stakes.
The 20‑year‑old had previously guided the three‑year‑old to a handicap triumph at York’s Ebor meeting and was again entrusted with the filly by trainer Karl Burke. Nicholls delivered a neck‑length victory at 12‑1 odds over Clive Cox’s Shagraan, while Diligent Harry, a stablemate, claimed third place, edging the 9‑4 favourite Starlust. The win held special meaning for Nicholls, whose family boasts a rich sprinting heritage—his father Adrian and late grandfather Dandy were renowned sprinters. He said, “I called my dad on the way down and told him I thought I could finish in the top four; he told me to stay level‑headed.
I followed his advice and it paid off, so I’m over the moon.” Nicholls continued, “It’s been a dream season; I’ve checked off every goal. After winning the heritage handicap at York, I wanted a Group win, and achieving that on my first Group ride is extraordinary.” He also praised his trainer and owners for their trust, noting, “The boss has been fantastic since I started my claim, and the owners gave me confidence despite my 3‑lb claimer status. This victory means a lot to all of us.” Overall, the Mill Reef Stakes delivered a blend of competitive racing, heartfelt tributes, and emerging talent. Nabati’s narrow triumph over Arapaho Gold highlighted the fine margins that define top‑class sprinting, while the emotional undercurrents surrounding the Balding family added depth to the day’s narrative.
Simultaneously, Jack Nicholls’ breakthrough Group Three win signaled the rise of a new generation of jockeys ready to carry forward a legacy of sprinting excellence. The race will be remembered not only for its close finish but also for the way it honored a beloved figure in British racing while showcasing the sport’s future stars.