Constitution Hill Impresses in Newbury

Constitution Hill, the reigning Champion Hurdler, left jockey Nico de Boinville and trainer Nicky Henderson optimistic after a workout at Newbury on Tuesday. Despite this, bookmakers slightly eased his odds for the BetMGM Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle on November 30, where he is expected to make his seasonal return.  

This was Constitution Hill’s first public appearance since a lacklustre outing at Kempton in February, where an infection hindered his performance and ruled him out of a Champion Hurdle defence. During Tuesday’s session, he worked alongside stablemate Sir Gino and showed encouraging signs of readiness, though bookmakers and some observers found the session less dazzling than anticipated.  

De Boinville, who rode Constitution Hill in the gallop, said:  

“He felt great until about two furlongs out, where he had a good blow. This workout will bring him on a lot. Turning into the straight, he locked on, and I had to hold him back. The ability is all there—it’s now about getting him to peak fitness.”  

Trainer Nicky Henderson was unconcerned by market reactions, emphasising that Constitution Hill’s absence was due to bad luck rather than serious injury. He explained:  

“He’s been in training for months and looks great. This gallop was a big step-up, and we’re absolutely spot on for his return. There’s always pressure with horses like him, but there’s nothing physically wrong, and he’s had a good summer.”  

Sir Gino’s Role

Sir Gino, a Grade One-winning novice hurdler, worked strongly during the session and remains on track for a chasing career. Henderson confirmed that Constitution Hill’s presence allows Sir Gino to transition to fences, though he could step in as a backup for major hurdles if needed.  

The Fighting Fifth Hurdle, set to feature Constitution Hill, marks the first step in what Henderson hopes will be a successful campaign for his star hurdler, who last raced in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton nearly a year ago.  

Despite fluctuating odds, connections remain confident in Constitution Hill’s readiness for a strong season ahead.