“We’re not running him for experience or anything like that. He doesn’t need experience. The crux of it is that we probably need to get him a handicap mark and so this is the second leg,” said Nicky Henderson, the esteemed trainer of Constitution Hill, as he prepares for the horse’s second Flat appearance at Kempton Park on March 19, 2026.
Constitution Hill, a horse that has made headlines for his remarkable performances, is entered for the Virgin Bet Novice Stakes. The anticipation surrounding this race is palpable, especially considering his impressive history, which includes a victory in the G1 Supreme Novices’ Hurdle by an astonishing 22 lengths at the 2022 Cheltenham Festival and a win in the 2023 Champion Hurdle. However, his recent outings have been less than stellar, with Constitution Hill falling in three of his last four races over hurdles.
Henderson’s strategy for this race is clear: to secure a handicap mark for Constitution Hill. “It’s not the practice he needs, but we’ve got to be getting ahead in trying to get him a handicap mark, so we feel it’s better to get it done this way,” he elaborated, indicating that this race serves a dual purpose beyond mere competition.
Ryan Moore, a top jockey known for his skill and experience, will take the reins for this race. This decision comes as Oisin Murphy, who has been a regular rider for Constitution Hill, faces an eight-day suspension from March 24-31. Moore’s involvement adds an extra layer of intrigue, as he is expected to bring a wealth of experience to the task of guiding this exceptional horse.
Constitution Hill’s transition to Flat racing has been noteworthy. He made a successful debut at Southwell, winning by nine and a half lengths, showcasing his potential on this new stage. The upcoming race at Kempton is not just another outing; it is a critical step in his journey, as he aims to solidify his standing and prepare for future challenges, including the G3 John Porter Stakes at Newbury on April 18.
Barney Clifford, a key figure in the event’s organization, expressed hope for a strong turnout, stating, “I hope people will come. Looking at what he did at Southwell, both with his performance and the press he generated, hopefully it’ll gather momentum and we’ll be rewarded at the track on Wednesday.” This sentiment reflects the excitement surrounding Constitution Hill’s return and the expectations of fans and stakeholders alike.
As the race day approaches, Constitution Hill is currently priced between 14-1 and 16-1 for the Gold Cup at Royal Ascot in June, while Paddy Power has installed him as the favorite at 2-7 for the Kempton contest. These odds indicate the confidence in his abilities, despite the challenges he has faced recently.
In summary, Constitution Hill’s upcoming race at Kempton Park is more than just a competition; it is a pivotal moment in his career as he seeks to establish a handicap mark that will set the stage for future successes. With the support of his trainer, jockey, and the racing community, all eyes will be on this remarkable horse as he aims to reclaim his status as a leading contender in the world of horse racing.