Opinion | The key numbers in the battle between Whyte and Purton

Twelve. That’s the oft-quoted number of jockeys’ championship Douglas Whyte has won, in a row no less, and a number that is likely to grow to 13 and maybe beyond. Who knows? He is only 41 and seems to have mastered a system that can chew up and spit out others and sometimes it seems like Zac Purton’s whole-hearted challenge to the crown just isn’t fair – it’s a case of man versus machine.

Whyte’s rivalry with Purton has thrown the focus on the two jockeys’ contrasting riding tactics and styles, which reflect their seemingly diametrically opposed personalities. That, and some number-crunching for the 2012-13 so far, gives some insight into the South African’s methodical approach and how he has maintained such an incredible dominance for such a long period. It also debunks a couple of commonly held misconceptions.

It’s fair to say that Purton for certain stages of this season and last has ridden at least as well, if not better, than his rival. Purton in fact has been exceptional and fun to watch as well. He has taken the enormous chip off his shoulder and translated it into inspired race-track performances. It’s a fine line between risk taker and reckless, and he has walked the tightrope mindfully, maturing as a man and a competitor all the while.

Purton is instantly likable but is also undoubtedly brash and brazen – and his riding reflects that with a high degree of risk taking and aggression. Purton pushes the limits everywhere as he looks for an edge – even verbally, daring to play a game very few have previously, that of needling the king with post race taunts and pointed, pressure-building messages in the media. Purton at times plays the part of, or is at least perceived as, the upstart, on the edge – but Whyte is the considered percentage player, making his careful choices, on track and off, with a long view to future success.

That’s not to say Purton isn’t a superb strategist – from Class Five to Group One he has shown himself as a man with a plan, with the necessary nerve and daring to execute under pressure. But it’s as if Purton is applying the equivalent of guerrilla warfare tactics, adopting hand-to-hand combat and kicking in doors on a race-by-race basis. All the while Whyte has been studying the 13 chapters of The Art Of War for the last decade and slowly building an empire. Of course, as Purton often points out, when it comes to warfare or winning, the weaponry matters – and Whyte has the right ammunition.