Get ready for an exciting preview of the Constitution Hill Southwell race! The highly anticipated Flat debut of Constitution Hill is about to unfold, and we're here to break it down for you.
Constitution Hill, ridden by champion jockey Oisin Murphy, was initially drawn on the wrong side of the ballot, but luck turned in his favor as four horses ahead of him in the priority list were scratched, ensuring his spot in the race. This is a relief for his connections and those who backed him.
Nicky Henderson's star, who has had some rough falls in his recent starts, including the Fighting Fifth Hurdle, takes center stage in this 12-furlong contest, which will be broadcast live on ITV4.
But here's where it gets interesting: Murphy, a five-time champion Flat jockey, has only ridden for the Henderson yard three times previously on the level, with one win.
So, who dares to challenge Constitution Hill? Let's meet his rivals:
Gambino: This five-year-old made a winning debut at Gowran Park and finished second in a handicap. Now trained by Dan Skelton, he's rated 92 by Timeform.
Square Necker: A 160,000 euros son of Zarak, he won at Dundalk last December and is now with Kevin Philippart de Foy. Timeform rates him 97p, suggesting potential for improvement.
Daddy Long Legs: While not as accomplished over hurdles as Constitution Hill, he's a solid performer for Willie Mullins and will be ridden by Ryan Moore. He finished second in a newcomers' race at Saint-Cloud in 2022.
Grazeon Sunshine: Making his Flat debut, this horse has shown promise in bumper races, winning at Sedgefield and placing second at Aintree.
Mr McLoughlan: A three-time winner over hurdles this season, he represents a stable with plenty of Flat experience, but he's yet to race on the level.
Nardaran: This horse finished third in a newcomers' race at Saint-Cloud in 2024 and has since become a useful hurdler for Paul Nicholls. Timeform rates him 81.
Roadlesstravelled: Looked promising as a novice hurdler in 2024 but has pulled up in his last two starts. Never raced in this sphere before.
Star Artist: Won at Exeter last year but his hurdles form pales in comparison to Constitution Hill's.
Tripoli Flyer: Plenty of pace over two miles as a hurdler, and he finished second in a deep Ascot handicap last time out. One to watch among the outsiders.
Noble Way: Represents a top Flat team but has had training issues, making her debut as a four-year-old after being purchased for 12,000 euros as a juvenile.
Masked Mistress: Won a bumper at Plumpton but finished last in an all-weather event on the flat last week. Faces a tough challenge.
Miracles Do Happen: Placed in bumpers but has shown only moderate form in hurdle races so far.
Tres Bien: Hasn't impressed over hurdles and showed little promise in her bumper days. Seems out of her depth here.
Now, let's take a look at how the betting odds are shaping up for this race:
Paddy Power Betting Odds:
- Constitution Hill: 11/10
- Square Necker: 7/4
- Daddy Long Legs: 7/2
- Gambino: 10/1
- Grazeon Sunshine: 14
- Tripoli Flyer: 14
- Mr McLoughlan: 20
- Roadlesstravelled: 20
- Noble Way: 33
- Nardaran: 50
- Masked Mistress: 66
- Miracles Do Happen: 150
- Star Artist: 150
- Tres Bien: 200
And here's the full list of runners and riders for the 19:30 SBK Road To Cheltenham Novice Stakes:
- Gambino (Trainer: Dan Skelton, Jockey: Hollie Doyle)
- Square Necker (Kevin Philippart de Foy, David Egan)
- Constitution Hill (Nicky Henderson, Oisin Murphy)
- Daddy Long Legs (Willie Mullins, Ryan Moore)
- Grazeon Sunshine (John & Sean Quinn, Jason Hart)
- Mr McLoughlan (Jack Jones, Hector Crouch)
- Nardaran (Paul Nicholls, Cieren Fallon)
- Roadlesstravelled (Jonjo & AJ O'Neill, P.J. McDonald)
- Star Artist (Hughie Morrison, Rob Hornby)
- Tripoli Flyer (Fergal O'Brien, Billy Loughnane)
- Noble Way (David O'Meara, David Nolan)
- Masked Mistress (Jim & Suzi Best, Finley Marsh)
- Miracles Do Happen (Tom Lacey, Luke Morris)
- Tres Bien (Hayley Burton, Darragh Keenan)
So, who do you think will challenge Constitution Hill? Will the favorite live up to expectations, or will an outsider surprise us all? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! This race is sure to be a thrilling spectacle, and we can't wait to see how it unfolds.
