For some jockeys, getting a ride in a race like the Investec Oaks is something they can count on every season.
Although having ridden countless winners, including at top level, chances in the Epsom Classic have been thin on the ground for Adam Kirby over the years.
Despite being acknowledged as one of the hardest-working riders in the weighing room, the 26-year-old has had just the one outing in the fillies' showpiece, in 2008 aboard Clive Cox's Miracle Seeker who finished a well-beaten 11th behind 33-1 winner Look Here.
Seven years on, the Kirtling-based jockey finds himself aboard a principal player for this year's renewal in Lady Of Dubai.
The Luca Cumani-trained filly announced herself as a live contender for Classic glory when posting a commanding success in the Height Of Fashion Stakes on her seasonal reappearance at Goodwood.
Kirby said: "Lady Of Dubai is a really smart filly who has obviously improved this year.
"I have only had one ride in the race, so it is a big learning curve for me, but I am delighted to get such a good ride.
"She is very relaxed and has a lovely temperament. She has a high cruising speed and a great turn of foot. I think she has everything you want for a horse in this race."
The manner of her three-and-a-quarter-length victory at Goodwood gives Kirby plenty of optimism about the chances of securing his inaugural Classic success on one of racing's biggest stages.
Kirby said: "She did everything nicely at Goodwood. She really relaxed and travelled well throughout the race. When I positioned her out I only had to give her one flick and she just picked up really well. It was a good performance."
While Epsom is a track that is not to every horse's liking, Kirby feels both the cambered course, together with the step up in trip, should not pose a problem for his mount.
Kirby said: "Goodwood is a tricky little track that has its ups and downs, but you never know about Epsom until they have been there.
"As she is well balanced and very relaxed I don't think she will have any problems at all on the track, while she should get the trip.
"Although I have only had one ride in the Oaks I have ridden over a mile and a half plenty of times around Epsom. I am really looking forward to it, but the plan will be just to keep it simple and do nothing silly."
For Kirby victory would not only strengthen his links as retained rider to owner Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum, who tasted Epsom glory back in 1998 thanks to the Derby success of High-Rise, it would eclipse everything he has so far achieved in the saddle.
Regarded as having few peers when it comes to the all-weather tracks, Kirby said: "It was a great day the last time I rode in the race, but hopefully I can be a bit closer this time as I'd like to think I have a chance of being a lot more competitive.
"Listen, it would be a massive achievement if it all comes off and hopefully it will all go well on the day. Hopefully we can get a clear run and I can tell what it feels like to win it after crossing the line."
