Nicky Henderson posts Constitution Hill update after report confirms horse bled from nose in Kempton race

ICONIC trainer Nicky Henderson has provided an update on Constitution Hill after he bled from the nose on his big comeback run. The former Champion Hurdle king-turned-Flat campaigner finished fourth in the September Stakes last Saturday, but the stewards’ report afterwards produced a concerning update on the nine-year-old. Nicky Henderson has provided an update on Constitution Hill after the nine-year-old bled from the nose on Saturday Credit: PA It came after the former Champion Hurdler finished fourth in the September Stakes Credit: PA The report said: “The Veterinary Officer reported that Constitution Hill, placed fourth, had bled from the nose.” Bleeding from the nose can signal something bad in a horse, as it can relate to anything from a scratch in their wind pipe to a haemorrhage in the lungs. Sign up for the Sport newsletter Thank you! Fortunately, Seven Barrows boss Henderson swiftly put any fears to bed via an update on his X. He wrote: “Constitution Hill is 100 per cent sound. Ate up last night and is enjoying a relaxing day in his private sand pit.” READ MORE IN HORSE RACING He posted two photos of the former jumps star living his best life following his Kempton return. Racing fans will be glad to know the two-time Cheltenham Festival winner is fit, healthy and potentially ready for an autumn campaign on the level. King Charles’ horse Warrant Holder denied Constitution Hill a dream top three finish, as Ralph Beckett‘s Pride of Arras and favourite Gethin filled the first and second spots. Trainer Henderson and owner Michael Buckley would have been aiming for a spot on the podium to qualify for November’s Melbourne Cup – which has a prize pot of nearly £10million. Most read in Sport The Group 1 contest over two miles might have suited Billy Loughnane’s mount, who seems to be crying out for further. Champion jockey elect Loughnane, who became the third different jockey in as many Flat races to ride Constitution Hill, alluded to the possibility of a longer trip benefitting the horse. He echoed Henderson after the race who said he thinks 1m4f-1m6f is the ideal range. Both stressed that 2023 Champion Hurdle winner will come on for the run, as he returned to Kempton with a much taller order, five months after his Class 3 victory under Ryan Moore. It’s back to the drawing board for connections now though, with Constitution Hill’s official handicap mark to be revealed on Tuesday. He has an entry in next weekend’s Irish St Leger over 1m6f, it’s unlikely Hendo would want him to run again so quickly. FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org. Remember to gamble responsibly A responsible gambler is someone who: Establishes time and monetary limits before playing Only gambles with money they can afford to lose Never chases their losses Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here. Comment now