In the thrilling world of National Hunt racing, one name stands out above the rest — Constitution Hill.This seven-year-old powerhouse has become the talk of the racing community, dominating hurdles and captivating audiences with an impressive winning streak.
As the 2024 Cheltenham Festival approaches, all eyes are on Constitution Hill as he seeks to secure his ninth-straight victory under rules and clinch his second Champion Hurdle.
Constitution Hill’s journey to stardom had its share of challenges. In April 2021, he suffered a narrow defeat in his sole point-to-point race — losing to Anyharminasking by a mere head in Tipperary.
However, this setback didn’t deter the seasoned racing enthusiast Michael Buckley who saw potential in the young talent.
Acquiring Constitution Hill for £120,000, Buckley entrusted the horse to the expertise of veteran trainer Nicky Henderson at Seven Barrows.
From the outset, Constitution Hill displayed his prowess — winning his first two races at Sandown by impressive margins of 14 and 12 lengths, respectively.
However, it was in the 2022 Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham that he truly announced his arrival on the scene.
Going off as the 9/2 joint-favourite alongside Dysart Dynamo on Paddy Power, Constitution Hill left spectators in awe with a commanding 22-length victory over stablemate Jonbon.
Since that remarkable Cheltenham triumph, Constitution Hill has continued to leave a trail of victories in his wake.
Back-to-back Grade 1 wins in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle and Christmas Hurdle at Kempton in late 2022 showcased his exceptional talent.
The pinnacle of his achievements came with a triumphant win in the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham last March, followed by a victory in the Aintree Hurdle in April.
The summer brought speculation about whether Constitution Hill would transition to fences, but owner Buckley and trainer Henderson opted to keep their prized asset over hurdles.
The decision proved wise as Constitution Hill returned for the 2023-24 season at Kempton on Boxing Day, defending his Christmas Hurdle crown with a dominating victory of over nine lengths against Rubaud.
Those hoping to see Constitution Hill in the International Hurdle at Cheltenham Trials Day in January were left devasted when it was revealed on Henderson’s official X (formerly known as Twitter) that Constitution Hill had returned an unsatisfactory scope and therefore would not be taking part in the race.
“A routine scope last week wasn’t entirely satisfactory and a follow-up this morning shows the issue hasn’t resolved and therefore there would not be time to get him ready for next week,” the statement said.
“In the meantime, he will continue with light exercise, be re-scoped in a fortnight’s time, and then start his preparation for March.”
Now, all roads lead back to the iconic Prestbury Park as Constitution Hill prepares for the 2024 Cheltenham Festival.
The anticipation is palpable, and Cheltenham’s concourses are set to be packed on the opening day of the fFestival with eager punters all hoping to catch a glimpse of the sensational seven-year-old.
As Constitution Hill aims for his second Champion Hurdle, which he is expected to win according to the sports betting tips, his journey continues to captivate the racing world — solidifying his status as the biggest name in National Hunt racing.
