Trainer Nicky Henderson shared his satisfaction after putting National Hunt star Constitution Hill through a gallop at Newbury, marking a positive step toward his anticipated return in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle on November 30. Constitution Hill, last seen defending his title in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton last December, missed the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham due to a respiratory issue and was later sidelined by colic, which prevented a potential run at Punchestown in the spring.
Reflecting on Monday’s gallop, Henderson said,”He was in terrific form this morning. He’ll likely gallop again at Newbury on the Tuesday before the Coral Gold Cup meeting, setting him up well with two preparatory spins.” He emphasised that, despite not racing since December, Constitution Hill has maintained his fitness, and following a successful summer, his respiratory issues are fully resolved. “His wind is great; Nico [de Boinville] said he felt fantastic, so all is good,” Henderson added.
Alongside Constitution Hill, Henderson’s other standout, Jonbon, also enjoyed a Newbury workout. After clinching Grade One victories at Aintree and Sandown last season, Jonbon is set to return in Cheltenham's Shloer Chase next month. “Jonbon is in excellent form, ready for Cheltenham, and Nico was pleased with him, too,” said Henderson, underscoring his optimism for the upcoming season with both stable stars.