Constitution Hill Windsor doubts grow as Nicky Henderson reveals Kempton back-up plan

Nicky Henderson admits he is becoming “less and less optimistic” about Constitution Hill making his eagerly anticipated return at Windsor later this month, although the trainer already has an alternative plan in place.

The unbeaten nine-year-old was identified for a Listed contest at Windsor on August 29 as he prepares for his third appearance on the Flat.

However, the continued dry conditions have cast doubt over whether Constitution Hill will be able to take his chance, with the Group 3 September Stakes at Kempton on August 31 now an increasingly likely alternative.

Henderson would prefer to head to Windsor, but insists there is no need to rush the Michael Buckley-owned gelding, who is being prepared for another campaign over hurdles later in the year.

“The only good thing is that we’ve got a back-up a week later in the September Stakes at Kempton, which would be up in grade. I’d really like to go to Windsor, though, because it’s a nice Listed race, but if we have to go to Kempton then we will.

“The extra week doesn’t matter. He’s not had a run since Kempton [in March], but wherever he goes will get him ready for his autumn campaign. He won’t be further forward if we had to wait for Kempton and we’re not up against the clock either.”

Constitution Hill has made a perfect start to his Flat career, winning both of his races since making the switch from jumps racing.

His first victory came at Southwell in February when ridden by Oisin Murphy, before Ryan Moore took over in the saddle for his second success at Kempton in March.

The change of discipline has so far brought two straightforward victories, with Henderson reporting that his stable star has continued to please during his summer break.

“His work’s been great and we’re really happy with him. Nico [de Boinville] has ridden him once, and Dan [Williams, work-rider] rides him every day, so from our point of view we’re happy.”

The question of who will ride Constitution Hill next time remains open, with both Murphy and Moore having existing commitments.

Henderson would ideally like to use a jockey who already knows the horse, but is not yet concerned about securing the booking.

“They’ve both got commitments before him, but hopefully someone will be available. It would be good to have someone who knows him, but we’re not worried about that yet.”

The biggest concern surrounding Constitution Hill’s Windsor engagement is the state of the ground.

A lack of rainfall across Britain has created difficulties for racecourses preparing for the autumn jumps season, with Henderson among the trainers eager for conditions to change.

“Like everyone, I want it to rain like hell. Constitution Hill hasn’t galloped on grass, but I don’t think there’s a horse in Britain who has. It’s a big issue for the next couple of months, but it’s a bigger issue for the racecourses.

“We’re looking at places like Ascot, where you can’t help but notice the jumps tracks look a bit sad. We need rain, but it’s certainly not on the radar, and I’m getting less and less optimistic about Windsor [for Constitution Hill], but I’m not panicking as we have Kempton.”

Henderson has already welcomed the majority of his jumps team back into training ahead of the autumn and winter campaigns, but the current weather conditions are making preparation increasingly difficult.

For Constitution Hill, the immediate focus remains on finding the right conditions for his next Flat outing rather than forcing a return date.

Windsor remains the preferred option if the ground is suitable, but the September Stakes at Kempton provides Henderson and his team with a clear alternative one week later.

Constitution Hill’s eventual Flat appearance is also expected to play an important role in his preparation for his return to the jumps, where he will once again be one of the most closely watched horses in training.

Constitution Hill FAQs

When could Constitution Hill run at Windsor?

Constitution Hill has been identified for a Listed race at Windsor on August 29, although the continued dry weather has raised doubts about whether he will take his chance.

What is the alternative race for Constitution Hill?

If Constitution Hill does not run at Windsor, Nicky Henderson has identified the Group 3 September Stakes at Kempton as a back-up option.

Who owns Constitution Hill?

Constitution Hill is owned by Michael Buckley.

Has Constitution Hill won on the Flat?

Yes. Constitution Hill has won both of his Flat starts, with victories at Southwell and Kempton.

Who has ridden Constitution Hill on the Flat?

Oisin Murphy rode Constitution Hill to victory at Southwell, while Ryan Moore partnered him to success at Kempton. Nico de Boinville has also ridden him in work.

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