WINNING the Rehearsal Chase on Frero Banbou before Christmas has really helped raise my profile. I had also ridden another big Saturday winner for my boss Venetia Williams on Martator at Ascot the previous weekend, so it was great to keep that momentum going. With nine winners already for the current season and plenty of opportunities coming my way, I have every chance of improving on my previous best, provided I can stay injury free.

I suppose the interest in racing came from my dad, who always kept a few mares and foals. Although property is his main business, breeding horses has always been a huge hobby of his. He currently stands the former Melbourne Cup winner Rekindling at home in Hospital, Co Limerick.