“We’re not running him for experience or anything like that. He doesn’t need experience. The crux of it is that we probably need to get him a handicap mark and so this is the second leg,” said trainer Nicky Henderson regarding Constitution Hill’s upcoming race at Kempton Park.
Constitution Hill, who has made a name for himself as an outstanding hurdler, is set to compete in the Virgin Bet Novice Stakes on March 19, 2026. This will be his second appearance on the Flat after a successful debut at Southwell, where he won by an impressive nine and a half lengths. Ryan Moore will take the reins for this race, adding further anticipation to the event.
Henderson further elaborated on the rationale behind the race, stating, “It’s not the practice he needs, but we’ve got to be getting ahead in trying to get him a handicap mark, so we feel it’s better to get it done this way.” This strategic approach highlights the importance of establishing a handicap mark for Constitution Hill, which could influence his future racing opportunities.
Prior to this race, Constitution Hill had a stellar career over hurdles, winning the G1 Supreme Novices’ Hurdle by 22 lengths at the 2022 Cheltenham Festival and the 2023 Champion Hurdle. However, he faced challenges in his last few outings, falling in three of his last four races over hurdles. This transition to Flat racing may provide a fresh start for the horse.
“Nico [de Boinville] came and sat on him this morning, only because he’s ridden him in all of his gallops and knows him very well. I asked him to sit on him and he said he felt in good form,” Henderson added, indicating confidence in Constitution Hill’s current condition.
Owner Michael Buckley and the team are hopeful that the public will show support for Constitution Hill. “I hope people will come. Looking at what he did at Southwell, both with his performance and the press he generated, hopefully it’ll gather momentum and we’ll be rewarded at the track on Wednesday,” said Barney Clifford, emphasizing the excitement surrounding the event.
Constitution Hill’s next potential race after Kempton is the G3 John Porter Stakes at Newbury on April 18, just three weeks later. As he prepares for the Virgin Bet Novice Stakes, he is currently priced between 14-1 and 16-1 for the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot in June, with Paddy Power installing him at 2-7 for the upcoming contest at Kempton.
As the race day approaches, all eyes will be on Constitution Hill as he aims to solidify his place in the competitive landscape of horse racing. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further developments leading up to the race.
