Constitution Hill has recently undergone an eye examination at a specialized equine clinic following a series of jumping mishaps during races. Previously, the eight-year-old had a flawless record, winning all ten starts under official rules.
However, in January, errors crept into his performances, starting with a near-miss at the Cheltenham Festival warm-up race where he hit the final hurdle while leading comfortably. Despite this, he remained a strong favorite for the Champion Hurdle, only to fall early in the race, ending his chances.
Hopes were high for a comeback at Aintree, but he fell again near the end of the race. Subsequently, he finished fifth in the Punchestown Champion Hurdle, sustaining minor injuries.
As the new jumps season approaches, Constitution Hill’s betting odds have dropped significantly, currently at 12-1, with The New Lion leading the list of favorites.
Despite these setbacks, his trainer remains positive about his prospects, stating that they have conducted thorough tests, including an eye examination, and found no significant issues. He praised Constitution Hill’s physical condition, highlighting his agility and strong lungs.
Reflecting on the past season, the trainer described Constitution Hill’s challenges as disheartening, especially his exits from key races. He expressed concern over the recurring jumping errors, considering the horse’s exceptional hurdling skills.
Looking ahead, Constitution Hill is set to compete in upcoming races, including the Fighting Fifth at Newcastle and the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton on Boxing Day. The trainer is optimistic about his performance in these events.