Loughnane sets sights on title after riding 200th winner of year

Billy Loughnane capped a memorable 2025 when bringing up his 200th winner of the year at Lingfield on Monday.

It has been a standout campaign for the 19-year-old who has not also strengthened his association with George Boughey, but has also been called upon regularly by Charlie Appleby, who provided the former champion apprentice with his first Group One success aboard Rebel’s Romance in Germany.

Heading to Lingfield on 199 for the year, Loughnane had to wait until his fifth ride of the afternoon to reach the notable landmark, getting Jim Boyle’s hat-trick-seeking Dandy Khan (9-4) rolling late to run down 13-8 favourite Villalobos in the Always Gamble Responsibly At BetMGM Handicap.

Loughnane told Sky Sports Racing: “It’s been on my mind since I hit 100 earlier in the year and a goal I set up.

“I wouldn’t be able to do it without my agent, Tony Hind, so I have to give him a massive shout and all the trainers that have supported me – George, Charlie, everyone at team Godolphin and I also have to mention dad (Mark Loughnane).

“I’ve had great support and without everyone I couldn’t be here.”

Loughnane’s double century sees him match the achievements of some of the greats of the weighing room as well as smashing last year’s previous highest tally of 162.

He now has his sights on becoming champion jockey for the first time in 2026, a year in which he can look forward to a starring role aboard Boughey’s Classic hopeful Bow Echo, among others.

“I’m very lucky and I want to go racing every day and ride as much as possible,” continued Loughnane.

“To be able to start getting some quality there is great and what we all dream of. Next year I have some targets I want to be ticking off again, like some more Group Ones, and I’ll be trying.

“Whether it’s next year or in years to come, winning the title would be my main goal – it’s everyone’s goal really. I’m going to be trying to do it as best as I can. I’ve got some stiff opposition to try to pass, but I’ll be giving it my best shot.”