Champion hurdle winner, Constitution Hill, jump racing's top dog is ruled out of Cheltenham.
After a routine workout last week at Kempton Park, with his stable mates Sir Gino and Quick Draw, Constitution Hill soon lost ground and soon after was soon pulled up by jockey Nico de Boinville. Watchers were surprised to see the champion unlike his usual self.
Videos began circulating on social media where Constitution Hill seemed to be heard wheezing as he came across the line, being pulled up shortly after. He was scoped afterwards, the results being he had excess mucus within his lungs, making his breathing irregular, explaining the worrying breathing sounds heard by onlookers and his lacklustre workout.
"Unfortunately, constitution hill did not work as expected at Kempton this morning and obviously we have a problem which is desperately disappointing for both of us" - Nicky Henderson OBE
This is a problem that Nicky Henderson has stated as being an issue before. In January of 2024, Constitution Hill was pulled out of the Unibet Hurdle, due to a similar issue. However, his workout at Kempton was a surprise as Henderson stated he had been '100% during all his work at home'.
Two days after the initial statement about Consitution Hills' condition, further blood tests were taken, showing that there is a 'significant degree of inflammation'. Repeat tests will need to be completed and this may be an ongoing issue in the future.
On Monday 4th March 2024, the sad news broke that Constitution Hill will not be running in the 2024 Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, on day one of the famous festival.
"Very sadly we are going to have to admit defeat in the battle to get Constitution Hill ready for the champion hurdle, therefore having to declare that he will not be running there this year" - Nicky Henderson OBE
Nicky Henderson stated that Constitution Hill has "undoubtedly" improved in his health over the weekend, seeming bright and similar to his usual self. The blood tests revealed that there were three significant markers, although coming down from Thursday's tests, are still not acceptable for a horse in extensive training.
Stress needs to be managed very carefully to ensure the champion returns to his full form as if not, it could have long-lasting negative effects on his career and health in general. From the team at Regal Racing, we would like to add to the continued support of Michael Buckley in these trying times and wish him and everyone at Seven Barrows Stables good luck.
The result of the disappointing news regarding Constitution Hills health means that State Man, trained by Willie Mullins, is now a clear favourite for the champion hurdle in one week at 1/3.
Other notable names in the champion hurdle include Lossimouth, also trained by Willie Mullins at 7/2, but many reports state she will be going for the Mares hurdle instead, coming in at clear favourite off 1/2.
The Champion Hurdle is now looking to be dominated by Irish-trained horses, with England's best bet out of the running.
Marine Nationale, Cheltenham's reigning SkyBet Supreme Novices Hurdle winner, is ruled out due to a 'suspensory strain'.
The Arkle favourite will be out of action for 6-8 weeks to allow his ligaments time to repair and ensure he is fully sound and in good health. This will result in his absence at all spring festivals.
We wish Barry Connell, Marine Nationale's trainer and owner, all the best for the horse's recovery and we hope to see him back happy and healthy as soon as possible.
The Arkle betting is now thrown up in the air, with seven horses being extremely well matched according to Paddy Power. The new co-favourites are Found A Fifty, trained by Gordon Elliot, and Il Etait Temps, trained by Willie Mullins.
Another Irish-dominated race, at this year's upcoming Cheltenham festival. JPR One is now English racing's best bet to secure a win in the Arkle at 7/1.
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