Constitution Hill Withdrawn from Cheltenham's Champion Hurdle, Ending Jumping Career
In a significant announcement that has sent ripples through the racing world, trainer Nicky Henderson and owner Michael Buckley have confirmed that Constitution Hill will not compete in the Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival on March 10. This decision marks the end of the celebrated horse's jumping career, following days of intense deliberation by his connections.
A Difficult Decision After Flat Success
The choice came down to whether to return the nine-year-old to hurdles, a discipline where he has fallen in three of his last four outings, or to allow him to pursue a career exclusively on the Flat. This follows his impressive debut on the level at Southwell last Friday, which Henderson described as a "magical occasion" that showcased the horse's popularity and potential in a new arena.
Henderson had indicated on Tuesday that Constitution Hill would undergo a schooling session on Wednesday, after which the final conclusion was reached. In a statement, he explained, "Michael Buckley and I have not surprisingly spent a lot of time soul searching and thinking over Constitution Hill’s future and have sadly concluded that he will not be running in the Unibet Champion Hurdle the week after next."
Public Perception and Safety Concerns
The trainer reflected on the public's divided opinion, noting that feedback from supporters was nearly "50-50" on whether the horse should race again over hurdles. Henderson emphasized the weight of this decision, stating, "We are very aware of the public perception and the possible consequences of running over hurdles and feel it is not fair to ask him and Nico (de Boinville) to do it again."
He acknowledged the sadness felt by many, particularly within the National Hunt community, who had hoped to see Constitution Hill attempt to regain his crown after winning the Champion Hurdle in 2023. "This is a sad day for a lot of us, particularly the National Hunt fraternity that would have liked to have seen Constitution Hill try to regain his crown," Henderson admitted.
A New Chapter on the Flat
Despite the disappointment, Henderson highlighted the horse's well-being and future prospects. "However he leaves the jumping world sound and happy and ready for the next chapter," he said, suggesting that Friday's performance indicated "another career in front of him that could possibly take us all to new playing fields."
He also paid tribute to the journey so far, noting, "It has been a staggering journey so far and Michael has had to endure some dark days but of course enjoyed the enormous highs and thrills of an extraordinary horse."
Farewell Opportunity at Cheltenham
In a gesture to fans, Cheltenham Racecourse has extended an invitation for Constitution Hill to parade on Champion Hurdle day. This offers National Hunt supporters a final opportunity to bid farewell to the horse as he transitions away from jumping, providing a poignant moment for those who have followed his career.
The withdrawal reshapes the landscape for the upcoming Champion Hurdle, removing one of the most anticipated contenders and sparking discussions about the horse's legacy and future in Flat racing.
