Bacchanal set to lead the revelry at Kempton

Unlike the King George titleholder, Fitzgerald's mount didn't benefit from an even pace throughout the race, making his time more meritorious.

Given he was then a novice with prior experience of just one race over fences, Bacchanal is entitled to have improved a great deal since. The manner of his seasonal-debut success earlier this month at Sandown suggests intensive corrective schooling has ironed out any jumping flaws.

Better over the smaller obstacles than year-older First Gold, Bacchanal needed less than 14 months to improve through the hurdling ranks to take the 2000 Stayers' championship at the Cheltenham Festival. He doesn't need to progress as much to impact at the top level over fences.

Not given to over-estimating his horses, Henderson is strikingly sanguine about having just one shot at gold after a rare throat problem ruled out Bacchanal's more fancied stablemate, Marlborough. Take the hint.

First Gold pulverised his opponents last year, yet with two of Britain's best up-and-coming chasers in Bacchanal and Best Mate set to face him this time around, his task is far tougher.

But his quick, low style of jumping has the ideal foil in Kempton's flat track and relatively pliable fences.

Lack of fitness or motivation have been blamed for two defeats at Newbury, but perhaps that different track and lack of true pace in small-field contests were more to blame.

Whatever, expect to see the best of First Gold again here - but at unappetising odds.

Best Mate attracted the unwanted 'next Arkle' accolade during his fine novice-chasing and hurdling seasons. Comparisons to that greatest of chasers are destined to disappoint, but this six-year-old does look something special.

There was a lot to like about his defeat by Wahiba Sands at Ascot last month.

The winner has gone in again since as one leg of jockey Tony McCoy's superb five-timer at Ascot last Saturday. Best Mate was conceding 20lb, but battled back to within half a length at the line.

This is his first attempt beyond 2m 4f, although he stayed that well in testing ground at Sandown last term.

More worrying is trainer Henrietta Knight's preference for a softly, softly campaign. The King George was owner Jim Lewis's call. This youngster may show flashes of what he's capable of, without winning.

Each-way punters should look to Legal Right. He was travelling as well as First Gold until three out in Aintree's Martell Cup on heavy ground in April.

This sound surface and sharp three miles will do justice to his ability. Hold all bets until going to post, however, as he's notoriously fragile.

Perpetual bridesmaid Florida Pearl can't expect better with age. Stamina doubts attend last year's third, Bellator, and Fadalko. This track doesn't suit veteran Go Ballistic.