Mr J C Barry

It wasn't always this way. Twelve months ago Barry was winning roughly 1 in every 14 rides, a modest but respectable return that suggested a jockey finding his feet in a competitive sport. That form has dried up completely this season, and 24 consecutive races without a winner is a stretch that will be felt. In racing, confidence and momentum matter as much as ability, and right now Barry has neither working in his favour.

At four years in, he is still in the phase of his career where everything is being figured out — which horses suit him, which tracks play to his strengths, which trainers will give him a chance. The next winner, whenever it comes, will matter more than most.