Constitution Hill: Champion steeplechase to pursue a career in flat racing

After winning his first 10 races under jockey Nico de Boinville, Constitution Hill’s falls – including at Aintree and Cheltenham – left Henderson contemplating his future.

The successful switch to flat at Southwell last Friday showed his potential.

Starting the 6-4 favorite and with five-time champion jockey Oisin Murphy in the saddle, the move paid off as he moved to the front well ahead of the line and held on to win by nine and a half lengths from Squire Necker and Gambino.

“He showed on Friday night that he has another career ahead of him that can take us all to new stadiums,” Henderson said.

“It was a fantastic night for him and for us and I think the British Horse Racing team and I are very aware of the public perception and potential consequences of going over the barriers and we feel it is unfair to ask him and Nico to do it again.

“Cheltenham have invited Constitution Hill to show on Champion Hurdle day to give all National Hunt supporters the opportunity to say their goodbyes.”