Born: 8 June 1980 Nationality: Irish Height: 5ft 7" English Classic wins: One (St Leger) 2004 wins: 120 2003 wins: 102 2002 wins: 86 2001 wins: 112 2000 wins: 78

He burst onto the scene as a teenager when he partnered Tarascon to victory in the 1998 Irish 1,000 Guineas.

Since then, he has won plenty of plaudits but his riding style has also often landed him in hot water with the stewards.

Last season was his first in one of racing's plum jobs - stable jockey for Aidan O'Brien and the Coolmore outfit.

He landed the post after successful spells with Luca Cumani and as understudy to Frankie Dettori at Godolphin and Michael Kinane at Ballydoyle.

But the association ended after just one season which proved difficult for Spencer, despite becoming the second youngest winner of the Irish Flat jockey's crown.

He was disqualified on Powerscourt after finishing first in the Arlington Million, and was then criticised by some for committing too early on him in the Breeders' Cup Turf.

He also came under fire in some quarters for his ride on the frustrating Antonius Pius, who finished second in the Breeders' Cup Mile.

However, he claimed Group One wins in the Middle Park Stakes and the Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere late in the season.

Being the godson of Coolmore supremo John Magnier can't have harmed him but Spencer has earned his chance with some bold, skillful and tactically astute riding.

And the smart money will be on Spencer bouncing back from this disappointment when the 2005 Flat season gets underway.

Jamie Spencer - Q&A

Favourite horse you have ridden in the Derby? Moon Ballad. I came third in 2002 and it was a really great ride.

Toughest opponent? Frankie Dettori - no contest. He's always up there amongst the front runners and is as cool and calm as you'd want a jockey to be.

First memory of watching the Derby? Generous winning in 1991 - a great race and one that made me want to be a part of the Derby.

What horse would you most liked to have ridden in the Derby? Shergar - Walter's ride in 1981 has gone down in history - and it would have been an honour to ride such a great horse.

If you don't win, who would you like to see win? Martin Dwyer.

How would you celebrate if you won? Very boring I'm afraid - I'll be in bed 'early' come what may as the French Derby is the next day!