21st October 2012

The end of an era, the illustrious racing career of Frankel came to a close yesterday. To finish in such emphatic style in unfavoured conditions that suit your main opposition, after virtually walking out of the starting stalls showed how great Frankel really is. It's unlikely we'll see another like him for a very long time, but the impression he has left will stay with us until that time comes.

14.45 Kempton

It's very interesting to see SIRE DE GRUGY take to fences and this first run is a good chance to open his mark. His price is a bit short for a big stake, but he was the best of these over hurdles and enjoys Kempton and going right handed. Polisky disappointed on several occasions last year but his recent third will have helped to sharpen him up and he still rates the main threat. 11/10 several, 2.04 Betfair

15.20 Kempton

SPIRIT OF SHANKLY is a horse to follow this year, and this is his for the taking. He was available at 11/2 original, and a steady amount of money has brought his price in to make him favourite. Obviously we need to see how he takes to hurdling, but there's plenty to like about how he won his bumpers and this can begin a good season for him. Equally impressive is Once More Dubai who has the experience of a win over hurdles, and Princely Player is no pushover either, but preference is for Longsdon's charge.9/4 several, 3.45 Betfair

16.25 Kempton

Only 4 runners now in this encounter and it looks a head to head between BRAMPOUR and Get Me Out Of Here. Both were very good last year, the former extremely progressive and he may not have finished yet. He won first time out last year and I have a suspicion he'll be more wound up for this than the Henderson horse. 6/4 Sportingbet, 2.42 Betfair

Good luck!

The Horse Whisperer