Group 1 stars set take on Constitution Hill at Kempton

William Dobbie Updated: 16 hours ago

Constitution Hill makes his eagerly-anticipated return to racing in the September Stakes at Kempton on Saturday.

The former champion hurdler made a seamless transition to his new career on the level, winning novice contests at both Southwell and Kempton.

However, with the rattling fast ground seen over the height of the summer not to his liking, connections decided to give him a break, instead opting to freshen him up for a Autumn campaign that will see him enter Group company for the very first time this weekend.

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Despite dipping his toe in at Group 3 level to begin with, Constitution Hill's trainer Nicky Henderson has described Saturday's assignment as "highly competitive" and is sure to be his toughest test yet since beginning his Flat career.

The nine-year-old was initially entered up for the August Stakes that took place at Windsor over the weekend but concerns over the going dissuaded connections from having a go at the 1m3f Listed affair.

"Kempton is obviously going to be a highly competitive Group 3, but we have got to start somewhere in order to find out where he belongs and establish an autumn campaign," Henderson posted on X.

"We all think he is in excellent shape and although he will undoubtedly benefit from this run he is ready to do himself justice."

Regardless of the result on his return, Constitution Hill is in for an exciting end to the season; both handicaps and Group 1 races -- at home and abroad -- are still well and truly a realistic option.

Victory at Kempton could see him take up his entry in the Irish St Leger in two weeks time at the Curragh. Won by the likes of Kyprios and Yeats in the past, the 1m6f contest is one of the most prestigious staying races across the whole of the UK & Ireland.

Heading into this weekend, Bay City Roller appears to be Constitution Hill's biggest danger on paper. George Scott's stable star was last seen romping to victory in the Coronation Cup on Derby day, downing the reigning European Horse of the Year, Calandagan, in the process at Epsom.