Unbridled returns for Season 2 as Matt Chapman and Paddy Brennan kick off the National Hunt season with a heated debate after Newbury Gallops Morning. The session featured former Champion Hurdle winner Constitution Hill schooling alongside stablemates Therapist and Act Of Innocence.
Trainer Nicky Henderson was upbeat about the display, saying they “think he’s really well” and that the timing is ideal with just under a fortnight to go until the Fighting Fifth. Chapman was equally enthusiastic, calling the piece of work stunning and likening the horse to a machine — “look at the tank,” he said — adding that Constitution Hill “looked a million dollars” and pulled clear of his stablemates.
Brennan pushed back, reminding viewers of his earlier scepticism that Constitution Hill “will not win a Grade 1,” and warned against reading too much into the gallop. He argued the exercise taught little — noting a Flat jockey had been riding alongside a National Hunt star — and that, on this performance, the horse “will not be winning any Grade 1s.”
The conversation acknowledged the recent problems in the spring: after a poor run in the lead-up to the 2024 Cheltenham Festival, Constitution Hill fell at Cheltenham and Aintree and was well beaten at Punchestown. Following summer repairs, connections are hopeful the eight-year-old can rediscover his best form ahead of a planned return at Newcastle later this month.
Chapman rang jockey Nico de Boinville, who described the schooling as “routine,” said he was happy with the horse and confirmed the piece went to plan.
Watch the full episode of Unbridled on the At The Races YouTube channel to see the full discussion and footage from Newbury.