Constitution Hill showcased his prowess as a top-tier Flat horse by securing another victory at Kempton Park on Wednesday evening. The nine-year-old, previously known for his Champion Hurdle triumph, joined forces with renowned jockey Ryan Moore to triumph in a 1m4f novice stakes race on the all-weather track.
Following an impressive debut in this new domain back in February, Constitution Hill was the clear favorite to claim the £6,480 top prize in the Virgin Bet-sponsored competition. A sizable crowd gathered at Kempton Park to witness the Nicky Henderson-trained veteran hurdler’s evolution in this fresh discipline.
Facing a pivotal juncture in his jumping career after a series of falls in recent races, Constitution Hill transitioned to the flat racing scene a month ago under the guidance of trainer Nicky Henderson. The shift culminated in a remarkable victory at Southwell in the £40,000 SBK Road To Cheltenham Novice Stakes, setting the stage for his future on the flat tracks.
Returning to familiar grounds at Kempton, where he had previously clinched the Christmas Hurdle thrice during his hurdling days, Constitution Hill attracted a crowd of 1,477 spectators, significantly surpassing the typical Wednesday night turnout. The crowd warmly welcomed him into the paddock as he prepared to compete.
Under Moore’s expert handling, Constitution Hill, priced as the 1-7 favorite, settled into fifth position before accelerating at the 2-furlong mark to outpace Classical Allusion effortlessly.
Reflecting on the horse’s performance, Moore expressed optimism about Constitution Hill’s potential for further improvement, emphasizing his comfort at the 12-furlong distance. Henderson, impressed by the horse’s adaptability and enjoyment on the flat, confirmed the decision to redirect his career away from hurdling towards a prosperous future in flat racing.
The successful outing at Kempton marked a joyful occasion for all involved, offering reassurance and a fresh start for Constitution Hill after a tumultuous period. Henderson and the team, buoyed by the horse’s newfound enthusiasm and success, look forward to exploring his capabilities in the flat racing arena, acknowledging the overwhelming support and appreciation from fans and spectators.