FIGHT'S OVER
Nicky Henderson makes shock decision and rules Constitution Hill OUT of the Fighting Fifth due to ‘tragic problem’
"He's currently lame"
NICKY HENDERSON has announced Constitution Hill will NOT be running in the Fighting Fifth at Newcastle.
The Seven Barrows' stable star has been out of action since Kempton last Boxing Day after suffering a respiratory infection and then a life-threatening bout of colic.
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He was last seen at a racecourse gallop at Newbury on Tuesday where he underwhelmed viewers by trailing along after Sir Gino, looking laboured.
Henderson was initially positive following the workout, despite the HUGE drift in odds for the Champion Hurdle in March - he went from 6-4 favourite to 4-1.
Punters' fears were not unfounded, and a video emerged on X at around 1pm on Friday afternoon ruling out Constitution Hill's return next Saturday.
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A gutted Henderson said: "I'm afraid I have to report we have a problem with Constitution Hill.
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"He's currently lame which wasn't immediately apparent after his gallop at Newbury on Tuesday.
"But, for the last 48 hours he has been sore, but for what reason we are still unaware but still currently investigating.
"At this stage you'd have to say he is unlikely to make next Saturday at Newcastle."
"This, as I'm sure everyone will appreciate, is a tragic problem for us, but we have to report where we are.
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"He's still under investigation and we are trying to find the reason for it which is not apparent.
"We will keep everybody posted, but at this stage he is unlikely but I have to confirm to everybody this is NOT a retirement call. He was bright and breezy after his gallop, but we have this issue..."
The video ended abruptly after that comment, and punters took to the comments section with mixed opinions.
One said: "Such a shame hope CH can get back to his absolute best good luck with him Nicky!"
Another added: " Retire him!"
One said: "Sad news but health of the horse strikes first."
Constitution Hill is now 5-1 for Champion Hurdle glory.
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