Constitution Hill's flat race debut at Southwell sparks debate on horse's career strategy

Constitution Hill, a top hurdler, is set to race on flat ground at Southwell. This is a change from his usual races after recent falls.
By Newsroom | Horse Racing, Sports |

A significant amount of public and expert attention surrounds the upcoming flat race debut of Constitution Hill, a highly-regarded jump racer. This event, scheduled at Southwell, is seen by some as a necessary step to regain momentum after a series of falls, while others question the value and strategy behind the decision. The discussion highlights differing perspectives on how to manage a champion athlete's career and address recent performance setbacks.

Background: A Champion's Recent Challenges

Constitution Hill, a winner of the Champion Hurdle and previously considered a near-unbeatable force, has experienced a downturn in form.

Paul Nicholls says Constitution Hill run on the Flat ‘a lot of hype about nothing’ - 1

  • Over his last four starts over hurdles, he has fallen three times.

  • His most recent outing this season, the BetMGM Fighting Fifth Hurdle, saw him fall early.

  • This has cast doubt on his suitability for the upcoming Cheltenham Festival Champion Hurdle.

In response to these challenges, his connections, led by trainer Nicky Henderson, have opted for a flat race debut at Southwell. This move is intended to rebuild confidence and provide a different racing experience.

Contrasting Opinions on the Flat Strategy

While the flat debut is set to proceed, there are varied viewpoints on its necessity and potential outcomes.

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Paul Nicholls says Constitution Hill run on the Flat ‘a lot of hype about nothing’ - 2

The "Hype" Perspective: Paul Nicholls' View

Paul Nicholls, a prominent jump trainer, has expressed skepticism regarding the significance of Constitution Hill's flat run.

"There is a lot of hype about nothing."

Nicholls suggests that such an event, even for a horse of Constitution Hill's caliber, should not be overemphasized. He draws a parallel to his own former champion, Big Buck's, implying that a flat run would not alter the fundamental assessment of that horse's capabilities.

Paul Nicholls says Constitution Hill run on the Flat ‘a lot of hype about nothing’ - 3

  • Nicholls himself has a flat runner, Nardaran, a 50-1 outsider.

  • He views the flat run as an opportunity for Constitution Hill to "have a day out, go and enjoy himself."

  • He believes the horse has continued specialized schooling under Yogi Breisner for his primary discipline.

The Strategic Necessity: Henderson's Dilemma

Nicky Henderson, Constitution Hill's trainer, appears to be navigating considerable pressure to ensure the horse runs.

  • Henderson has expressed concern that Constitution Hill might miss the flat race due to the oversubscribed nature of the event.

  • He stated it would be "very sad" to miss this chance, highlighting its perceived importance.

  • Constitution Hill was ranked 16th in the ballot for the SBK Road To Cheltenham Novice Stakes, requiring multiple withdrawals for him to secure a starting spot.

This situation underscores the anticipation surrounding the flat debut and the complexities of securing a desired race entry.

Expert and Media Reactions

The decision has drawn commentary from various racing figures and media outlets.

  • Matt Chapman has suggested Nicky Henderson should release videos of Constitution Hill's schooling sessions to provide reassurance.

  • Bookmakers have adjusted odds, with some offering "super boosts" on Constitution Hill to finish in the top three, while others have increased his price, suggesting varying market confidence.

  • David Ord and others have focused on the major decision facing Constitution Hill's connections regarding his future, particularly his participation in the Champion Hurdle.

Potential Ramifications and Next Steps

The flat debut, if it proceeds, is viewed by some as a potential preparatory race for a return to the Champion Hurdle. However, the recent performance history of Constitution Hill, marked by falls, introduces an element of uncertainty.

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  • The outcome of the flat race is anticipated to influence decisions regarding Constitution Hill's Cheltenham Festival participation.

  • The strategy of using a flat race to overcome a difficult period in hurdles racing presents a case study in athlete management.

  • Further schooling and analysis of Constitution Hill's current aptitude will likely be key factors in future planning.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Constitution Hill racing on flat ground at Southwell?
Constitution Hill, a successful hurdler, is running on flat ground at Southwell to help him regain confidence after falling in his last three hurdle races. This is a new strategy by trainer Nicky Henderson.
Q: What do other trainers think about this flat race for Constitution Hill?
Some trainers, like Paul Nicholls, believe the flat race is not very important and is just a chance for the horse to enjoy himself. He thinks it won't change how people see the horse's ability.
Q: Is it confirmed that Constitution Hill will race at Southwell?
It is not fully confirmed yet. Constitution Hill was ranked 16th in the race entries, meaning many other horses must withdraw for him to get a starting spot. Trainer Nicky Henderson is worried he might miss the chance to run.
Q: How might this flat race affect Constitution Hill's chances at the Cheltenham Festival?
The outcome of the flat race is expected to help decide if Constitution Hill will run in the Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival. His recent falls have made people unsure about his future performance.
Q: What are people saying about Constitution Hill's recent performance?
Experts and media are discussing Constitution Hill's recent form, noting he has fallen in three of his last four hurdle races. This has raised questions about his readiness for major events like the Champion Hurdle.