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Constitution Hill is the big turn as spring season kicks into gear with Nicky Henderson’s ‘freak’ Champion Hurdle favorite making the long-awaited return in the Ascot Coral Hurdle
- Constitution Hill makes a comeback at Saturday’s Ascot Coral Hurdle race
- Nicky Henderson’s champion hurdle favorite has been labeled a ‘freak’
- State Man and Sharjah are among the five entries for the Punchestown race
The action at Cheltenham last week wasn’t quite a mock war, but Saturday afternoon certainly heralds the start of the National Hunt season proper.
As if the comeback of Champion Hurdle favorite Constitution Hill and Gold Cup winner A Plus Tard in Haydock wasn’t enough to satisfy the hunger, the sight of Cheltenham Festival winner L’Homme Presse, Arkle Chase hero Edwardstone and the returning Protectors should do enough to appease jumps fans.
Sunday’s Morgiana Hurdle offers even more richness, with State Man runner-up and two-time Champion Hurdle Sharjah as one of five entries, although Vauban’s absence during the week is all but confirmed, leaving a bitter taste for ante-post players.
Constitution Hill will make a highly anticipated comeback in the Ascot Coral Hurdle on Saturday
But now is not the time to debate Willie Mullin’s bingo. Instead, enjoy the return of Constitution Hill, who has been labeled a “freak” by those privileged to see him every morning.
Earlier this week, Nicky Henderson lamented that he had nothing to keep up with his steady star at home.
Jonbon was occasionally the sacrificial lamb at Seven Barrows, and his seven long midweek romps at Warwick showed just how superior his stablemate can be this season.
Unsurprisingly, the layers took few chances with last season’s Supreme Novices’ Hurdle winner, nor have they been too generous with the prize of A PLUS TARD (Haydock, 3.00), despite that the soil at the northwest location is said to be softer than ideal.
Nicky Henderson’s Constitution Hill has been labeled a freak by those who see him every day
A demolition of 22 lengths from Royale Pagaille last year established the eight-year-old as a key contender for the success of Blue Riband in March and he did not disappoint his followers, beating stablemate Minella Indo by 15 lengths, with Protektorat in third.
The latter is making an effort to close the gap on Saturday and there seems to be no real reason why he should unless Haydock turns into a slog.
Bristol De Mai could prove to be the main opponent on his preferred ground and with jockey Daryl Jacob excited about his chance this week as it started to rain.
A spot alongside Kauto Star awaits the sweet gray if he can win Saturday’s Grade One marquee for the fourth time.