Constitution Hill: Nicky Henderson reveals “traumatic few days”

Outstanding hurdler

Constitution Hill

has been in veterinary hospital since Wednesday night to monitor suspected colic.

revealed on Sunday morning that he and his team have had a “traumatic few days” with one of the sport’s biggest stars and that “we are not completely out of the woods”.

However, Constitution Hill has avoided major surgery and is being reintroduced to his normal diet today. If all goes well, it is hoped he may return home in a day or two. 

Henderson revealed on X: "We have had a few traumatic days with poor Constitution Hill as he had to go to the veterinary hospital on Wednesday night in order to monitor suspected colic and I am pleased to say they have managed to avoid major surgery so far and this morning he is being reintroduced to a normal diet. If this goes well he could come home in the next day or so.

“We are not completely out if the woods but very hopeful that he will soon be back which will be an enormous relief.” 

He added: “This will obviously interfere with our plan to get to Punchestown which is very sad but the only important thing at the moment is to get him home safely.” 

Constitution Hill is unbeaten in eight races and has been hailed as one of the greatest hurdlers there has been.

The seven-year-old was a brilliant winner of the Champion Hurdle last season but this campaign he has been beset by issues.

He had to miss the defence of his Champion Hurdle crown this month because of a respiratory infection.

A dirty scope had also prevented running at Cheltenham in January, while he missed an intended run at Newcastle in November when that meeting was washed out.

The bay gelding has run just once all season, when sauntering to a second success in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton. 

Signs of colic may occur if a horse’s small or large intestine is obstructed. Blockages can occur in any part of the digestive tract and can cause considerable pain.

It is estimated that nine out of ten cases in colic resolve themselves, or with treatment. However, the condition can be fatal with surgery not without risks.