Constitution Hill continued to impress in the world of Flat racing by securing a second victory at Kempton Park. Partnered with jockey Ryan Moore, the former Champion Hurdle winner triumphed in a 1m4f novice stakes event on the all-weather track.
After a successful debut in February, Constitution Hill was the clear favorite to clinch the £6,480 prize in the Virgin Bet-backed race. Fans gathered in large numbers to witness the Nicky Henderson-trained horse’s progression from the hurdles to the flat track.
Facing uncertainty in his jumping career following a series of falls in recent races, Constitution Hill transitioned to the flat racing scene about a month ago. Trainer Nicky Henderson directed the nine-year-old towards the £40,000 SBK Road To Cheltenham Novice Stakes at Southwell, where he excelled as the 6-4 favorite.
The impressive performance at Southwell convinced Henderson to shift Constitution Hill’s focus from jumps to flat racing, ruling out a Cheltenham Festival appearance. The decision was met with enthusiasm from supporters and marked a new chapter in the horse’s career.
Returning to familiar territory at Kempton, Constitution Hill delighted a crowd of 1,477, significantly higher than the usual Wednesday night attendance. Guided skillfully by Moore, the favorite secured victory over Classical Allusion, showcasing potential for further improvement.
Moore praised Constitution Hill’s adaptability and hinted at more to come from the talented horse, emphasizing the comfort level at 12 furlongs. The trainer expressed relief and joy at seeing the horse enjoy his races, highlighting the importance of a contented equine athlete.
Reflecting on the supportive crowd and the horse’s journey, Henderson acknowledged the challenges faced and the newfound joy in Constitution Hill’s racing career. The transition to flat racing has opened exciting possibilities for the seasoned competitor, drawing admiration and appreciation from fans and horse racing enthusiasts alike.