Constitution Hill wows on Flat debut at Southwell

Constitution Hill was billed as the star of the show at Southwell on Friday and so it proved, with arguably the biggest name in National Hunt racing running on the Flat for the first time and, as he has done so many times during his career, leading his rivals a merry dance in what was a sensational performance.

Much-publicised falls over hurdles led to Nicky Henderson switching to the level on a fact-finding mission and with five-time champion jockey Oisin Murphy in the saddle, no stone was left unturned.

Drawn in stall 12 over a mile and a half for the SBK Road To Cheltenham Novice Stakes, the 2023 Champion Hurdle hero – who was sent off the 6-4 favourite – broke nicely and was always well positioned.

Moving ominously on the turn for home, he simply cruised down the straight when Murphy shook just an inch of rein and the race was over.

In the end the winning margin was nine and a half lengths from market rival Square Necker, with the packed stands cheering every stride.