Three shining stars show 'tis the season to be jolly for the Betfair Chase

How reassuring to have traditional routines to cling to as we approach the end of this most troubling of years.

After setting off the bonfire night fireworks and before putting up the Christmas decorations, there is another seasonal ritual that brings a warm glow of memories from happier times past.

The Betfair Chase may only have been going for 15 years but it has oft stirred the emotions in that time; think of celebrated winners Bristol De Mai, Cue Card and Kauto Star, whose thrilling, pension book-defying fourth triumph at the age of 11 made grown trainers cry in 2011.