Constitution Hill made headlines once again as he triumphed at the Ladbrokes Christmas Hurdle at Kempton Park, dominating the race after overcoming numerous challenges over the past year. Jockey Nico de Boinville and trainer Nicky Henderson expressed their joy and relief at Constitution Hill’s remarkable comeback, ensuring he solidified his status as one of the all-time greats of the sport.
The seven-year-old gave the crowd plenty to cheer about on Boxing Day, returning to the racetrack after dealing with health setbacks, including a lung infection and bouts of colic. These challenges had raised doubts about whether he could recapture his previous form, particularly with Lossiemouth, trained by Willie Mullins, coming off nine wins from ten races. Many experts, including former Gold Cup-winning jockey Paddy Brennan, believed Constitution Hill could not reclaim his top form. Brennan, now known for his pithy remarks on Sky Sports Racing, stated, “I can’t see him coming back to peak. No, just no. I think it’s impossible to beat something like Lossiemouth,” reinforcing the pressure on the champion.
But Constitution Hill’s supporters never wavered, and on the day of the race, he proved the doubters wrong. After what had been dubbed as his “annus horribilis” by De Boinville, who channelled the spirit of Christmas to express his feelings, Constitution Hill showcased impeccable jumping and speed, winning by two-and-a-half lengths.
“He felt fantastic,” de Boinville told ITV Racing after the race. “He’s going to improve an awful lot. There’s still a bit of ring rustiness after a year or so. All the credit has to go to the guv’nor because this is some training performance.” De Boinville’s victory dance was not without remarks aimed at Brennan, whom he retorted, “You can shove it where the sun don’t shine!” This outburst reflects the emotional weight and anticipation leading up to this comeback.
Henderson, who has trained Constitution Hill to victory across various notable races, including his previous two Christmas Hurdle wins, was equally elated but understated following the race. “He still goes,” Henderson smiled, affirming the horse’s resilience. “It still works,” he added, echoing the astonishment of both fans and pundits. His comments displayed confidence as he assessed Constitution Hill’s performance, stating, “He is back to where he belongs. I do think he is nearly as good as he was.”
This triumph not only regained Constitution Hill's position atop the Hurdle rankings but also shifted the betting odds back to his favor for the upcoming Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham. After his win, his odds shortened significantly, making him the favorite once again. Lossiemouth, who had taken over as the preferred contender prior to the race, will likely reconsider her options following this defeat. There’s speculation she may target the Mares’ Hurdle instead of facing Constitution Hill again.
Throughout the race, Constitution Hill visibly exhibited his speed and tact. Despite being off the track for nearly a year, he seemed poised and composed, travelling effortlessly through the early stages. His jumping was flawless, and he displayed classic finishing power, confirming his legendary status.
Michael Buckley, Constitution Hill’s owner, expressed immense satisfaction after the race. “I’m absolutely thrilled to bits, I couldn’t be happier,” he reflected. Buckley has staunchly supported Henderson throughout the horse’s recovery and training challenges, showing faith through the ups and downs. “There was much talk about him being on the downward curve of his career. He wasn’t on any curve, he just wasn’t racing because he was unwell. It looks like he might be on the upward curve,” he noted, highlighting the pivotal role both trainer and horse play within the sport.
The atmosphere at Kempton was electrifying as the crowd cheered Constitution Hill’s entry to the winner’s enclosure. Many racing enthusiasts view him as not just champion but as one of the finest competitive spirits to grace the sport since the likes of Istabraq. His indisputable talents, coupled with the spectacle of his victory, have rekindled discussions about his potential legacy.
De Boinville encapsulated the importance of this win for the team, saying, “The great thing about my boss, Nicky, is he takes the pressure off. It has been nerve-wracking but so rewarding.” The ramifications of this race are massive, with eyes now set on the Champ Hurdle.
Looking to the future, there’s speculation about whether Constitution Hill might return for another race before Cheltenham, with Henderson indicating the possibility of competing at the International Hurdle at the trials meeting. This win has solidified his return to top form, and excitement builds as racing fans anticipate what’s next for this remarkable horse.
For now, as racing enthusiasts celebrate constitution Hill's impressive performance, many will discuss how this horse’s tale transcends sport—it’s about resilience, dedication, and the joy found both on the track and among those who rally behind their champions. It has been more than just another Christmas; it’s been about witnessing greatness once more.
Constitution Hill has not only reclaimed his title as Britain’s best jumper but has reestablished the sense of hope and excitement at the heart of horse racing, reminding us all why we love the thrill of the chase.
