Constitution Hill is preparing for a second start on the Flat at Kempton Park. Nicky Henderson has stated the main priority is getting a Flat handicap mark for the horse.
Kempton Race Details
Constitution Hill is slated to run in the Virgin Bet Novice Stakes at Kempton. He is expected to concede weight all round to seven inferiors. Ryan Moore is taking over in the saddle.
Classical Allusion, trained by Andrew Balding, is another horse who recorded a Southwell success. It is unlikely there will be a proper ding-dong battle with Constitution Hill.
Flat Racing Ambitions
There is speculation about future races for Constitution Hill. One possibility mentioned is the Sky Bet Ebor at York, with a mark around 112. A trip to Melbourne has also been mentioned.
Quick ground has already been ruled out for Constitution Hill. An Epsom, Royal Ascot or King George bid looks unlikely. Constitution Hill is barred from running in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe because he is a gelding.
It is hard to see what he can achieve on the Flat. The Irish St Leger might play to his strengths.
Southwell Victory
Constitution Hill is long odds-on to win at Kempton. A no-nonsense victory would come as little surprise. Odds of 1/6 indicate it is expected to be a cakewalk.
Everyone has calmed down from the Southwell euphoria. The Kempton race will provide more information about what he might achieve on the level.
Looking Ahead
The Kempton race will bring Constitution Hill closer to getting an official rating on the Flat. That will ultimately dictate the endgame for the nine-year-old.