The first winner is the most elusive in racing.

Just occasionally, as in the case of Brighton's Ryan Moore, success comes at the first attempt.

But more often, whether it be for owner, trainer or jockey, it can be a seemingly endless wait.

That is how it is for 18-year-old jockey Robert Lucey-Butler, from East Chiltington, the son of Plumpton trainer Paddy Butler.

He has had around 40 rides since he turned 16 and acquired his amateur's permit. As each has come and gone his resolve to make the grade as a National Hunt jockey has strengthened.

Lucey-Butler said: "For the last ten years or so I have been determined to become a jump jockey.

"The flat doesn't interest me at all, although I have ridden in quite a few races that have helped give me experience and polished my style, technique and fitness."

It was frustrating when he just got beaten in his first chase.

"I have ridden over hurdles, but this was my first ride over fences and I thought I had a chance to win on River Amora at Folkestone.

"Although he is small he's very tough and a good jumper.

"We led for a circuit but got done for speed in the straight. It was very annoying!"

Lucey-Butler comes from a sporting family. His father rode winners as a jockey and his sister Pamela has won countless trophies for tennis and squash.

"Pamela's in Lanzarote at tennis school at the moment and she is now a qualified coach, so if she doesn't make the grade on the professional circuit, she'll always be able to earn a living."

Lucey-Butler's first attempts at riding were on an old grey family pony.

"Jockey Ian Mongan learned to ride on him as well, as he began his career with us before moving to Gary Moore.

"I switched to racehorses at the age of 11 or so. In those days I was dead keen on sport at Cardinal Newman School in Hove.

"I was in the football, cricket and tennis teams. You name it, I played it, but the moment I rode my first gallop on a racehorse I was hooked and my destiny was determined."

Luckily, he passed his driving test at the first time attempt three months ago.It gives him the freedom to ride out for other trainers, such as Jamie Poulton at Lewes, who has already given him rides on the flat.

Lucey-Butler thrives on the atmosphere of the jockeys' changing room.

"It's great, but much better jumping than on the flat.

"The flat professionals don't take us amateurs too seriously, but many of the jump jockeys started off as amateurs and they're always ready to help and advise.

"Timmy Murphy gave me some of his old kit when I began riding and there is a feeling of camaraderie which doesn't exist in flat racing."

Mick Fitzgerald and Murphy are the two jockeys he studies and hopes to emulate and after every race he goes through the video with his dad, Paddy, whose advice he values.

If determination and burgeoning ability count for anything, that winner will not be long delayed, perhaps only until Tuesday when River Amora runs again at Folkestone.