The rider's partnership with O'Brien first took an English Classic in 1998 when King of Kings won the 2,000 Guineas at Newmarket.

But the jockey had long been successful in big races, winning the 1989 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe on Carroll House and the Epsom Derby in 1993 with Commander in Chief.

Although O'Brien's horses seem to have picked up from where they left off last season, Kinane has endured some big-race frustration in 2002.

He was suspended when Rock of Gibraltar won the 2,000 Guineas and then chose to ride Hawk Wing in the Derby - but came second to stablemate High Chaparral.

But Kinane claimed two Group One wins at Royal Ascot with Rock of Gibraltar and Sophisticat and then landed another Irish Derby success with High Chaparral.

Kinane picked up three winners at the 2001 Glorious Goodwood and went one better this year, his four successes giving him the top jockey award.

His wins included Rock of Gibraltar's comprehensive Sussex Stakes victory (the third time Kinane has won the Group One race) and success in the Goodwood Cup on Jardines Lookout.