Buick thankful for racing's support

Injured Godolphin jockey William Buick has spoken publicly for the first time about the horrific fall at Arlington Park, Chicago, in which his mount Permian was a fatality.

Buick said he was very aware just how lucky he was after the fall, which occurred on pulling up past the winning post in the G1 Secretariat Stakes on August 12.

But he expressed disappointment that he will now miss a major part of the European racing season.

Buick flew from Chicago in a brace and sought medical opinion on arrival back in Britain.

"After seeing my specialist today (Friday), I can confirm I have a T12 compression fracture after my fall at Arlington last Saturday, which sadly saw Permian lose his life. He will be sorely missed, and my condolences go to His Highness Sheikh Hamdan and the team at Mark Johnston Racing," the jockey said.

"I will have the injury re-scanned in 6 weeks time and will know more then.

"While I'm disappointed to be missing a large chunk of the season, I have plenty of respect for the injury and I realise how lucky I have been.

"I would like to thank all the well-wishers, everyone who helped me immediately after the accident at Arlington Park, including Charlie Johnston (assistant trainer), Jimmy Bell (President, Godolphin America), Chris Connett (Godolphin Travelling Head Lad), and all the doctors at the hospital in Chicago, and the whole racing community.

"I would also like to thank my family and friends and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed for their support," he said.