Nicky Henderson has decided that Constitution Hill will NOT take part in the £500,000 Ebor Handicap at York.
Just last week, the veteran trainer declared that his superstar ex-hurdler was in "terrific" order and was being aimed at the York showpiece next month. However, Henderson believes that it will be difficult to get a third run into Constitution Hill prior to Ebor, something that is required in order to get him qualified for the race.
"If only there was a good Listed race for him somewhere", Henderson told reporters when ruling his star out of the Ebor; much to the frustration of racing fans.
Fear not though, we're going to find that race for him and give Henderson some options ahead of an intriguing Autumn campaign...
Geoffrey Freer Stakes
When: 15th August
Where: Newbury
Class: Group 3
Distance: 1m5f
Although this might not be the Listed contest that Henderson desires, he did express an interest in running the John Porter at the back end of April, so a tilt at the Geoffrey Freer wouldn't be completely mad.
Ran at the same track as the John Porter -- Henderson's beloved Newbury -- the 1m5f would be ideal for the two-time Cheltenham Festival winner.
Furthur staked his claim for the St Leger when winning this last year and, whilst Constitution Hill won't be heading down the same path, it would provide him with an ideal four week gap before his entry in the Irish St Leger.
Chester Stakes
When: 22nd August
Where: Chester
Class: Group 3
Distance: 1m6f
The Chester Stakes was ran as a handicap all the way up 2017 but enters its ninth season as a Group 3 this year.
Spanish Mission won this is 2020 before finishing third in the Ascot Gold Cup 10 months later and the Willie Mullins-trained Absurde took this after winning the Ebor 12 months prior.
Sometimes the track can catch horses out, but you don't know until you try and options are running out for connections.
Godolphin Stakes
When: 25th September
Where: Newmarket
Class: Listed
Distance: 1m4f
There is always a doubt in the back of your mind over ground conditions when it comes to Constitution Hill but hopefully there might be a touch more rain around come the back end of September.
Lion's Pride was an exceptionally good winner of this 12 months ago and looks likely to head back for a repeat bid, however, he has not been quite the same since and might be vulnerable.
