Constitution Hill underwent an eye examination at a specialized equine vision center following a series of jumping mishaps. Previously unbeaten in ten races, the eight-year-old hurdler’s form took a downturn last season with notable errors creeping into his performances.
The first signs of trouble emerged in January when he made a mistake during a warm-up race for the Cheltenham Festival. Despite being the favorite, his chances were dashed in the Champion Hurdle after a fall, followed by another tumble at Aintree. Subsequently, he finished fifth in the Punchestown Champion Hurdle.
Heading into the new jumps season, Constitution Hill’s odds have diminished, with The New Lion topping the betting lists. However, his trainer remains optimistic about his prospects, stating that thorough tests, including eye examinations and bone scans, revealed no underlying issues.
The trainer expressed satisfaction with Constitution Hill’s physical condition, highlighting his agility and respiratory health. Reflecting on the past season’s setbacks, he described the hurdles as “heartbreaking,” emphasizing the horse’s exceptional jumping abilities despite recent challenges.
Looking ahead, Constitution Hill is set to participate in upcoming races such as the Fighting Fifth at Newcastle and the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton on Boxing Day. The trainer emphasized the importance of monitoring the horse’s performance and addressing any unexplained jumping behavior observed in recent races.