IT’S generally considered one of the least appealing aspects of flat racing, that the careers of the star horses are usually quite short. The greater attraction of jump racing is that we welcome back the stars year after year.

Flat racing, of course, operates around the breeding shed and the very best horses are too valuable a commodity to race on too long. And high-class geldings competing at the top level are rare. But would the sport not be the better for them?