The former hurdling champion seeks to build on a stunning Flat debut with a promising performance tonight.
Category: Sports
Constitution Hill, the once-untouchable hurdler, is set to make his second appearance on the Flat at Kempton Park Racecourse tonight, March 25, 2026, at 7:30 pm. This race marks a key moment for the nine-year-old horse, who is transitioning from a tumultuous career over jumps to a new chapter on the Flat.
Once celebrated for his prowess over hurdles, Constitution Hill saw his reputation tarnished by a series of falls, including high-profile tumbles at the Champion Hurdle during the Cheltenham Festival and the Aintree Hurdle. Following a disappointing outing at Punchestown, where he failed to impress, trainer Nicky Henderson made the bold decision to switch him to Flat racing to explore new opportunities.
His debut at Southwell last month was nothing short of spectacular. Constitution Hill won decisively, leaving his competitors behind by nine and a half lengths, reigniting hopes that he could still excel at the highest levels of competition. With this impressive performance, the stage is set for his next challenge, the Virgin Bet Novice Stakes at Kempton.
Ryan Moore takes the reins tonight, stepping into the role of jockey after Oisin Murphy was suspended. Henderson expressed confidence about the change, stating, “It’s not the practice he needs, but we’ve got to be getting ahead trying to get him a handicap mark.” He emphasized the importance of getting Constitution Hill into competitive situations to prepare for future races.
Tonight’s race is a Class 3 Novice Stakes over a mile and a half on polytrack, featuring eight competitors. The betting markets have placed Constitution Hill at 1/4 odds, making him a strong favorite. Bookmakers expect a dominant display, though they also recognize the potential challenge from Classical Allusion, a four-year-old who also won decisively at Southwell.
Henderson noted that this race serves not just for immediate results but also for gathering information about Constitution Hill’s performance on the Flat. “Kempton would give him three weeks until the John Porter, and rather than having to gallop him round the place here, I think another run would do him good,” he explained.
The Group 3 John Porter Stakes at Newbury on April 17, 2026, is already being discussed by Henderson and connections, with aspirations for Constitution Hill to compete at the prestigious Melbourne Cup at Flemington on November 3, 2026. Owner Michael Buckley has high hopes for this new phase, aiming for Constitution Hill to participate at the end of August or beginning of September, possibly targeting the Ebor, a race at Goodwood, or the Irish St Leger.
Former jockey Barry Geraghty, who was instrumental during Constitution Hill’s earlier career, suggested that the Irish St Leger on September 13, 2026, should be a major goal for the horse. He expressed excitement at the prospect of seeing Constitution Hill compete at such a high level again, stating, “I was just imagining him being there... the thought of him running is magic.”
Tonight’s race is not just about winning; it’s a litmus test for Constitution Hill’s capacity to adapt to a new racing style. The event is drawing considerable attention, with many punters eager to see if he can replicate his Southwell performance. Betting sites have even boosted odds for Constitution Hill to win by various margins, with offers for victories by five or more lengths, six lengths, or even ten lengths.
Henderson has been cautious about the future, stating, “there's no point thinking too far ahead at this stage.” He acknowledges that quick ground conditions have already ruled out some prestigious events, including Royal Ascot and the Breeders' Cup. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic about the potential for Constitution Hill on the Flat.
The anticipation surrounding tonight's race is palpable, with fans eager to witness whether Constitution Hill can establish himself once again among the elite competitors. The stakes are high, for his immediate performance and for the broader narrative of his career revival.
Should he succeed tonight, it would solidify his status and set the tone for a promising season on the Flat. With all eyes on Kempton, the racing community is abuzz with excitement, hoping to see Constitution Hill return to form and reclaim his place among racing's greats.
With the race just hours away, the question remains: can Constitution Hill deliver another jaw-dropping performance? Fans and bettors alike are holding their breath, eager to see how this remarkable story continues to evolve.