Legendary jumper Constitution Hill makes a bold switch to the Flat in the SBK Road to Cheltenham Novice Stakes at Southwell on Friday. Trainer Nicky Henderson hopes his previously unrestrained gelding will regain confidence on the flat after experiencing several falls.
The son of Blue Bresil's career began with a flawless run of victories, including a record-breaking win in the 2022 Supreme Novices' Hurdle. He then solidified his status as a generational talent by cruising to a dominant victory in the 2023 Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham.
His path was derailed in 2024 when a severe respiratory infection forced him to miss his Cheltenham title defence. Following this, he underwent a brief hospital stay for colic, causing him to miss nearly an entire year of top-level racing.
After recovering from this life-threatening illness, he made a triumphant return to the track by winning his second Christmas Hurdle at Kempton in late 2024. However, this comeback victory was soon followed by an uncharacteristic and worrying dip in his jumping reliability.
The champion has since struggled with his hurdles, suffering high-profile falls in the 2025 Champion Hurdle, the Aintree Hurdle and the most recent Fighting Fifth Hurdle. Having fallen in three of his last four starts, this Flat run is a tactical move to help him rediscover his confidence and rhythm.
The contest is scheduled for 7:30pm and carries a significant total prize pot of £40,000. The winner will take home £21,600, while the second and third-placed finishers earn £10,140 and £5,072 respectively.
This outing over one mile and four furlongs on the artificial Tapeta surface provides a safe environment for the horse to gallop without obstacles. He faces 13 rivals, including the Willie Mullins-trained Daddy Long Legs (9-2) and Amo Racing's Square Necker (13-8).
Champion Flat jockey Oisin Murphy takes the ride as connections have one eye on reclaiming the Champion Hurdle title on March 10. A smooth performance may prove his fitness and mental readiness for a triumphant return to the Festival and his race will be broadcast live on ITV4 and can be streamed on ITVX.
READ MORE AHEAD OF THE CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL: Willie Mullins shows true colours as he lays out £40,000 plan to take on Constitution Hill
