Craig Williams pilots Thermogenic to victory in the third race at Flemington

CRAIG Williams celebrated his 38th birthday on Saturday and continued his charge towards a fifth Victorian metropolitan jockey’s title at Flemington.

In the week that has celebrated the induction of standout performers into the Australian Racing Hall of Fame, Williams reminded everyone that he is a jockey who can lay claim to a nomination for the next induction ceremony.

Apart from birthday cards and a rendition of Happy Birthday from his children, Williams took his birthday in his stride as he walked the Flemington track before the opening race and adopted his usual professional approach.

It was the same methodical approach that has earned Williams two Caulfield Cups, two Cox Plates, an Oaks and Derby and Australian Cup among his collection of elite Victorian races.

Sean Buckley