Constitution Hill will make a final appearance at the Cheltenham Festival, parading on Champion Hurdle day despite his withdrawal from the race. The star hurdler, who triumphed in the 2023 Champion Hurdle, now shifts to a flat racing career following three falls in his last four hurdle outings.
Trainer’s Tough Decision
Trainer Nicky Henderson and owner Michael Buckley concluded that it would be unfair to subject the nine-year-old and jockey Nico de Boinville to further jumping challenges. Henderson stated last month: “Michael Buckley and I have spent considerable time reflecting on Constitution Hill’s future and have decided he will not run in the Unibet Champion Hurdle.”
He added: “This marks a sad day for the National Hunt community, which hoped to see him reclaim his title, and especially for Nico, who worked tirelessly to address jumping issues. However, he departs the jumping scene sound and ready for his next chapter after an extraordinary journey.”
Parade Opportunity for Fans
Cheltenham organizers have invited Constitution Hill to parade on Tuesday, allowing National Hunt fans a chance to bid farewell. The decision gained momentum after his dominant flat debut victory at Southwell’s all-weather track last month.
Henderson noted: “It proved a thrilling night for the horse, the team, and British racing. Public opinion weighs heavily, and with a near 50/50 split in supporter polls, we believe another hurdles run is unjust for him and Nico.”
He emphasized the horse’s promising flat prospects: “He has a bright career ahead that could open new horizons.”
Updated Champion Hurdle Field
Henderson holds no runners following Lucky Place’s withdrawal, joined by Wilful and Casheldale Lad on the scratch list. The New Lion remains the favorite, with Brighterdaysahead and last year’s winner Golden Ace also confirmed.
