Unbridled returns for Season 2. Hosts Matt Chapman and Paddy Brennan open the National Hunt season with their take on Newbury Gallops Morning, where former Champion Hurdle winner Constitution Hill schooled alongside stablemates Therapist and Act Of Innocence.
Trainer Nicky Henderson was encouraged: “We’re not talking total rubbish when we think he’s really well. He was good and I think everyone could see. I think we’re getting there and have just under a fortnight to go [until the Fighting Fifth] so the timing is great.”
Chapman called it a stunning piece of work: “Look at the tank! We saw a machine.” He also reminded Brennan of his earlier doubting remark that Constitution Hill “will not win a Grade 1” and noted how the horse “looked a million dollars” and “pulled well clear of his stablemates.”
The pair acknowledged the recent setbacks. After a poor run in the run-up to the 2024 Cheltenham Festival, Constitution Hill fell at Cheltenham and Aintree and was well beaten at Punchestown. Following summer repairs, connections look hopeful the eight-year-old can revive form ahead of a return at Newcastle later this month.
Brennan remained unconvinced: “We didn’t learn anything here. There was a Flat jockey riding a National Hunt horse upsides him… On that performance yesterday he will not be winning any Grade 1s. We learnt nothing – don’t be getting carried away.”
Chapman rang jockey Nico de Boinville, who called the work “routine” and said he was happy with Constitution Hill and that the exercise was executed as planned.
Watch the full episode of Unbridled on the At The Races YouTube channel.