Constitution Hill Undergoes Wind Surgery Ahead of Major Comeback

Constitution Hill had wind surgery this summer to fix a breathing issue, according to Nicky Henderson. This procedure is to prepare him for his return in the Grade 1 Fighting Fifth Hurdle. Henderson is eagerly anticipating the new campaign with his star hurdler at Newcastle on November 30.

Constitution Hill has had a successful career, winning all eight of his races. However, 2023 was challenging for Constitution Hill. He raced only once since April, securing a win in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton on Boxing Day. Despite this win being his second consecutive Christmas Hurdle victory, his season was disrupted by health issues. A respiratory problem kept him from racing in the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, and a planned race at Punchestown was canceled after he was hospitalized with suspected colic, delaying his return.

Despite these setbacks, Henderson has remained optimistic about Constitution Hill’s condition, particularly after the wind surgery. Wind operations are relatively common in racing, performed to enhance a horse’s breathing and overall performance during high-stress competitions. Henderson has had notable success with horses recovering from similar procedures, boasting an impressive record of 10 winners from 44 runners after wind surgery since the start of 2023. This includes the unexpected 28-1 victory of Caribean Boy at Cheltenham in April, a result that contributed to Henderson’s level-stakes profit of 24.5 points with horses returning from surgery.

Henderson’s success with horses after surgery gives hope, but all focus is now on Constitution Hill as he gets ready for his first race of the season. The Fighting Fifth Hurdle is an early highlight in the National Hunt calendar and will be a big test for the horse’s recovery. Fans are excited to see if Constitution Hill can regain his top form and keep his unbeaten record.

With Constitution Hill back in training and reportedly in excellent form, the wind surgery is seen as a precautionary measure to ensure the horse is at his best for the upcoming season. While the news of the procedure may have surprised some, Henderson’s approach reflects the careful management of a horse widely regarded as one of the most talented in the sport today.

Constitution Hill’s race at Newcastle will show how well he’s recovered from the surgery and last season’s setbacks. If he does well, it will confirm his status as one of the top stars in National Hunt racing. For Henderson, a strong performance would be a big achievement after a tough time for both him and his stable.

As the Fighting Fifth Hurdle approaches, excitement grows about Constitution Hill’s return. Fans will be watching to see how he performs after his long break and if the wind surgery helps him have another successful season.