Nicky Henderson confirms Constitution Hill’s next appearance

Legendary Lambourn trainer Nicky Henderson has confirmed Constitution Hill’s next appearance.

The 2023 Champion Hurdler will contest the G2 Unibet Hurdle at Cheltenham later this month.

“We have all been very happy with Constitution Hill since the G1 Christmas Hurdle at Kempton on Boxing Day and he has taken the race particularly well,” said the trainer in a statement.

“With that in mind, it is our intention to run him again in the G2 Unibet Hurdle at Cheltenham on 25th January en route to, hopefully, regaining his Unibet Champion Hurdle crown in March.

Constitution Hill was out of action for a full year with health issues, but made a triumphant return by cruising to victory in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton, keeping Irish opposition at arm’s length.

“The decision was quite easy because he has just been very well in himself, he looks great, and I really am delighted with how he has come through Kempton, so that is our plan,” he said.

“He doesn’t need to, but he will jump five hurdles between now and then, more so to amuse himself and Nico, because it’s certainly not amusing for me, it’s frightening watching him!

“Matty Gill, who rides him every day, says he feels great and from what I can see as well, I think this is the right decision.”

Henderson also provided an update on Palladium, the most expensive jumps horse ever at £1.2million, who came to Berkshire late last year.

“I’m pleased to report that everything is going nicely with Palladium who schooled very, very well,” he said.

“We are going to be launching him soon. The plan is to appear over hurdles in the very near future.”