Constitution Hill continues to dominate the racing scene, securing his tenth consecutive victory at Cheltenham in a nail-biting finish. The widely regarded 1-12 favorite demonstrated remarkable skill, even after facing a notable blunder at the last flight. Ridden masterfully by Nico de Boinville, the horse crossed the finish line three lengths ahead of Brentford Hope, showcasing why he is the standout contender for the upcoming Champion Hurdle.

A Close Call

De Boinville expressed his excitement and anxiety during the final stretch, stating, "My heart was in my mouth at the last but he was just doing it so easily." This victory not only enhances Constitution Hill's reputation but solidifies his position as a top contender for the Champion Hurdle set for March, where he remains the odds-on favorite.

Preparing for the Champion Hurdle

Trainer Nicky Henderson emphasized the importance of today’s performance: "He has had a nice spin today, which has saved us a lot of galloping at home. We know where we are with him. He'll have a quiet week now and then we'll start the engines up again." With a few weeks left to prepare, Henderson is optimistic about their chances of retaining the Champion Hurdle title.

Cotswold Chase Highlights

In other exciting news from Cheltenham, L'Homme Presse edged out Stage Star in a thrilling Cotswold Chase finish. Jockey Charlie Deutsch skillfully navigated the 4-5 favorite to victory after a closely fought race. Deutsch reflected on his horse's exceptional performance, noting, "Every time I get on him I get excited. His jumping was so smooth."

As the excitement builds heading into the Cheltenham Festival, fans and enthusiasts eagerly await the upcoming challenges that these remarkable horses will face. With solid performances and close finishes, it promises to be an exhilarating experience for all involved!