Constitution Hill set for Gran Premio del Jockey Club as Henderson alters autumn plans
Nicky Henderson has confirmed plans to send Constitution Hill to Milan for the Gran Premio del Jockey Club this weekend, electing to campaign the rising Flat performer abroad rather than target nearer-term options in Britain.
The seven-barrows handler has been keeping the former champion hurdler’s programme under close review following two straightforward wins earlier in the year and a first outing on the Flat in the summer. Constitution Hill finished fourth in Kempton’s September Stakes on his most recent start, a performance that lifted his official rating into the 108 bracket and effectively limited the handicap prospects available on home soil.
Decision to travel to Italy
With the Group Three BetVictor St Simon Stakes at Newbury available the day before, connections could have stayed in the UK, but Henderson confirmed the team will take the horse to San Siro. Oisin Murphy, who partnered Constitution Hill to a notable success at Southwell in February, is named to ride in Milan.
Henderson said the horse had worked well at home in the build-up and that preparations were complete. The plan is to travel by road to Italy on Thursday, with a number of British-trained runners expected to make the trip.
Cheltenham plans adjusted
The decision to head to Italy represents a departure from Henderson’s usual autumn routine, which often features an appearance at Cheltenham’s Showcase meeting as jumpers prepare for the new season. Prolonged dry conditions have delayed the returns of several of his principal staying hurdlers and chasers, a factor that has influenced a more continental approach for Constitution Hill at this stage of the campaign.
Henderson indicated that, while Cheltenham might be quieter for his yard this particular weekend, some runners could still be considered for later in the meeting should weather and underfoot conditions improve. He also noted interest from Italian media and a sense of anticipation about the international element of the trip.
Context and significance
The move highlights two trends affecting British trainers this autumn. First, high-rated horses who transition from National Hunt to the Flat can quickly outgrow domestic handicap opportunities, prompting connections to look for appropriate Pattern races abroad. Second, changing weather patterns and dry ground at home have prompted trainers to seek competitive opportunities across Europe where conditions may be more favourable.
For Cheltenham followers, the story underlines the fluidity of autumn campaigns as trainers balance the coals of the jumps season with Flat ambitions for versatile performers. While Constitution Hill’s appearance at San Siro removes a headline name from the immediate Cheltenham weekend narrative, it also serves as a reminder of the depth and diversity of options open to top stables.
What to expect in Milan
- Constitution Hill will be ridden by Oisin Murphy and is scheduled to travel to Milan by road ahead of the race.
- Connections view the ground as likely to be suitable, with local reports describing conditions as good and some rain forecast that could preserve that state.
- A number of other British trainers are understood to be making the trip to the Gran Premio del Jockey Club, adding an international flavour to the contest.
Whether Constitution Hill’s Flat campaign continues to feature international targets will depend on how he performs in Milan and how his rating influences future entries. For now, Henderson has opted for an unconventional autumn move that will see one of his best-known names compete on the continent rather than at Prestbury Park.
This article may have been prepared in whole or in part with the assistance of artificial intelligence.
