He served an apprenticeship with his father Dessie, the trainer and former leading National Hunt jockey.

At 5ft 9ins, Hughes junior is tall for a Flat jockey, and rode a number of winners over the jumps.

But he has managed to keep his weight under control and decided to pursue the summer game.

After arriving in Britain in 1994, he became stable jockey to Richard Hannon, who is now his father-in-law.

He is currently on a retainer for leading owner Khalid Abdulla.

Hughes landed the 1996 Italian Derby on Bahamian Knight, and boasts three victories in the Vodafone Stewards' Cup at Glorious Goodwood.

It seems likely there will be even greater success to come for the cool and stylish jockey.

Hughes returned to action in April 2002 after breaking his leg six months earlier in a fall at Newmarket.

And with Hannon's horses in cracking form this season, the winners have been flowing for Hughes.

He took his Glorious Goodwood tally to 13 with two more winners this year.