Constitution Hill, the reigning Champion Hurdler, faces an unforeseen setback due to lameness, casting doubt on his return in the BetMGM Fighting Fifth Hurdle while promising a cautious path towards recovery.
Nicky Henderson, one of the most renowned trainers in National Hunt racing, has shared the disappointing news that Constitution Hill, the current Champion Hurdle titleholder, is unlikely to participate in his highly awaited seasonal debut at the BetMGM Fighting Fifth Hurdle next Saturday in Newcastle.
This seven-year-old gelding, owned by Michael Buckley and considered one of the most promising talents in contemporary hurdling, has been put out of action due to an unexpected lameness problem. Henderson expressed his concerns openly.
“I regret to inform you that there is an issue with Constitution Hill. He is currently experiencing lameness.”
This news comes after a gallop at Newbury earlier this week in which Constitution Hill, piloted by Nico de Boinville, was unable to keep pace with his stablemate Sir Gino in the final yards. Although he displayed his usual eagerness during the workout, the signs of lameness only became noticeable in the following 48 hours.
“This issue didn’t become evident right after his gallop at Newbury on Tuesday,” Henderson stated. “However, he has been experiencing soreness for the past 48 hours. We are still trying to determine the cause of this discomfort.”
This unforeseen setback adds to an already disrupted recent season for Constitution Hill. After impressing in the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham last March and the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton in December, the gelding has made very few appearances. Adverse ground conditions, a respiratory problem, and suspected colic have sidelined him for considerable stretches over the past two seasons.
Although Constitution Hill has had limited appearances—only five under official rules—he has built an impressive reputation, with each race showcasing his dominance in the hurdling world. His undefeated status and impressive victories have led to comparisons with legends of the sport, yet this recent injury brings to light concerns regarding the resilience needed to sustain such excellence at the highest levels of competition.
However, Henderson was swift to reassure everyone that a premature retirement was not a concern.
“I must clarify to everyone that this is not an announcement of retirement—he is not retiring. He was lively and in good spirits after his workout, but we are facing this problem. We are attempting to identify the cause, which remains unclear, and we will keep everyone informed. However, at this point, it seems unlikely that he will participate next Saturday at Newcastle.”
The Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle is regarded as a significant seasonal milestone for top hurdlers, acting as both a platform for returning champions and a gauge for potential success at the Cheltenham Festival. The absence of Constitution Hill would not only create a gap in the race but also deny spectators the opportunity to experience his remarkable abilities.
Henderson's remarks highlight the seriousness of the situation, not only for his stable but also for the broader racing community, which has been keenly looking forward to Constitution Hill's return to the track.
As Henderson and his team strive to determine the source of Constitution Hill's discomfort, fans will undoubtedly remember the gelding's remarkable ascent and dominance in the sport. From his impressive win in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle to his record-setting triumph in the Champion Hurdle, Constitution Hill's journey has enraptured racing enthusiasts.
While this setback is difficult to accept, Henderson’s assurance that retirement is not imminent offers a glimmer of hope. The remarkable talent of Constitution Hill, alongside Henderson’s well-known patience and skill, guarantees that every possible effort will be made to help the Champion Hurdler recover fully.
In the realm of high-level horse racing, challenges are an inherent part of the process, and for Constitution Hill, there is hope that this is simply a temporary setback on the journey towards even greater achievements.
