Dozens of articles, research spanning years, intensive homework and a dedicated attention to detail.

Throw in a good meal, early night and prompt start and you're in the realm of every hard-working student.

Commentating on horse racing is just like a big exam - testing ability and knowledge under pressure.

But unlike an A-level, one blunder can mean not only personal anguish, but the wrath of millions.

Punters are an unforgiving bunch and if you're listening to a racing commentary, you never expect the broadcaster to get it wrong.

"It's very difficult to see them sometimes. They can be a mile, or in some cases even further, away," admits Bromley.

"It's extremely difficult to see the difference between a quartered cap and a hooped cap at a mile-and-a-half.

"But you have to try to ensure that you don't make a mistake that will antagonise punters."

And yes, Bromley - like virtually every racing journalist - enjoys the occasional bet although rarely on the day in case "it clouds his judgement."

"When you listen to other commentators, you sometimes think you know what they've backed as they start looking for the horse and calling it.

Blinded by the sun

"I've had one or two ante-post bets, but you don't remember you've got a bet at 33-1 when they're coming into the final furlong - it's only afterwards."

Though he may not say it himself, Bromley is a perfectionist and making a mistake grates with him, even decades later.

"That is the spectre hanging over every single commentator," added Bromley.

He recalls a time when he was temporarily blinded by reflected sunshine during a race at Newmarket.

"I was hit by this agonising sun, which was so warm it actually blew a TV lense below me.

"I couldn't see anything for about 30 seconds, and could just see orange and green colours.

"I guessed which horse it was, and got it wrong. It haunts me to this day."