Why there is much in store for stalwart Bated Breath this year

In a starry Juddmonte stallion line-up which is heavy on leading men, the award for best supporting actor has to go to Bated Breath, playing the quietly underpinning role that draws you in while Frankel and Kingman go about their business as matinee idols.

Now 15, the son of Dansili - who died in the lead up to Christmas - stands for a career high fee of £15,000 in 2022 thanks to four seasons in which the Group 2 winner has established a reputation as a reliable source of classy performers at an affordable fee.

Considering that Bated Breath was unraced at two, his ability to sire juvenile stakes winners who inherit their sire's toughness and longevity has to be one of the markers of his success.