Constitution Hill to miss Champion Hurdle
Nicky Henderson has confirmed that Constitution Hill will not line up in next month’s Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham Racecourse, with connections instead setting their sights on a Flat campaign later this year.
The 2023 Champion Hurdle winner – and devastating scorer in the 2022 Supreme when routing Jonbon by 22 lengths – had been the subject of intense debate after three falls in his last four starts over hurdles. However, he silenced plenty of doubters when bouncing back in style on the level at Southwell Racecourse last Friday, winning a 12-furlong novice under champion Flat jockey Oisin Murphy.
That comeback success sparked serious discussion about a change of direction. Owner Michael Buckley signalled ambitions towards major Flat prizes such as the Ebor Handicap, Irish St Leger and even the Melbourne Cup.
A return to hurdling for another crack at the Champion had not been entirely ruled out, with a midweek schooling session due to inform the final call. But Henderson has now drawn a line under that possibility.
In a statement, the six-time British champion trainer admitted the decision had not been easy.
“Michael Buckley and I have spent a lot of time soul-searching over Constitution Hill’s future and have sadly concluded that he will not be running in the Champion Hurdle,” Henderson said.
Reflecting on the Southwell victory, he described the evening as “magical” and acknowledged the huge affection the public continues to show the nine-year-old. Henderson also pointed to wider considerations, suggesting it would not be fair to ask either the horse or jockey Nico de Boinville to revisit recent jumping challenges.
“He showed on Friday night that he has another career ahead of him that could take us to new playing fields,” Henderson added.
While the decision will disappoint many in the National Hunt community, Constitution Hill exits the hurdling stage sound and ready for a new chapter. In a classy touch, Cheltenham officials have invited him to parade on Champion Hurdle day, allowing fans to give the former king a proper send-off.
Champion Hurdle Market Update
In his absence, the betting picture has shifted. The New Lion heads the market at 15/8, with Brighterdaysahead at 11/4 and Lossiemouth at 3/1. Last year’s surprise scorer Golden Ace is next in at 9/2, with the remainder headed by Poniros (10/1) and Alexei (12/1).
One era pauses. Another begins. And if Friday night proved anything, it’s that Constitution Hill isn’t done writing headlines just yet.
