Constitution Hill will run in Fighting Fifth, says Henderson

Nicky Henderson has confirmed Constitution Hill is set to take his place in the Betfair Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle on Saturday.

The ante-post favourite for the Champion Hurdle in March was intended to make his seasonal bow at Ascot in the Coral Ascot Hurdle last Saturday, but ground conditions at the Berkshire track saw the Seven Barrows star withdrawn on the day of the race.

That caused attention to turn to Newcastle where the five-year-old was one of six possible runners confirmed at the five-day stage for the Gosforth Park Grade One — a race won by Henderson five times in the last six years and could also feature stablemate and race regular Epatante.

Now Henderson has decided Constitution Hill will travel to the north east and said to the PA news agency on Wednesday morning: “Constitution Hill will run at Newcastle on Saturday.”

The ground at Newcastle is currently good to soft, soft in places with selective watering taking place and a forecast of showers in the lead-up to the race.

Barry Orr, spokesperson for the sponsors, is delighted at the prospect of a race to savour.

He said: “As sponsors we are obviously delighted with the news. It’s not only great for the race but also for the National Hunt game in general that Nicky, with the respective owners, have elected to run both horses.

“That competitive element has been sadly lacking in recent renewals of the race, but this is a step in the right direction and will make the Fighting Fifth the must watch race of the weekend.”