Date of birth: 26 April 1979 2002-03 wins: 5 (UK) 2001-02 wins: 9 (UK)

Doumen, son of Francois and grandson of renowned jockey and trainer Jean, has racing in his blood.

But the youngster has not had it all his own way as he embarks on his own career in the sport.

Doumen has often been savagely criticised by the British media for his tactical approach to racing.

However, in his defence he can point to some notable triumphs, in partnership with his father, against the best of British.

The 2000 win on First Gold in the King George VI Chase is Thierry's biggest in Britain.

But as well as that Kempton Park victory, he has also enjoyed triumphs at both the Cheltenham and Aintree Festivals.

He partnered First Gold to victory in the Martell Cup Chase at Liverpool in 2001 during a season in which, but for foot-and-mouth, the pair would have been one of the favourites to land the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

And the chaser bounced back from some disappointing runs to rout his rivals in the same race two years later.

Doumen has enjoyed three wins at the Cheltenham Festival, on Snow Drop in the 2000 Triumph Hurdle, and successive Stayers' Hurdle victories on Baracouda.

The jockey also has another string to his bow having been awarded his trainer's licence at the end of 2002.