The news that Constitution Hill scoped badly after an underwhelming workout at Kempton on Tuesday has sent shockwaves through the Champion Hurdle market. A number of firms had suspended betting on the race and there’s a serious danger that the ante-post Cheltenham Festival favourite will miss the race. These events should open things right up and this 6-1 could be the play should Constitution Hill not show up. Check out our free tips page for daily content across British and Irish racing.
Irish Point is near the top of the market for the Stayers’ Hurdle on Day 3 but trainer Gordon Elliott had been contemplating a Champion Hurdle bid instead. Owner Robcour also has Teahupoo and you can understand them wanting to separate the two.
The news that big favourite Constitution Hill’s participation is in doubt could push connections firmly towards the Champion Hurdle. This horse is very talented and there could be loads more to come from him. There’s a chance he could get a little outpaced over two and a bit miles but he’ll certainly be staying on up the hill.
Connections skipped Cheltenham and went straight to Aintree last year. The decision paid off as he won the Grade 1 Mersey Novices’ Hurdle over 2m4f. Elliott’s six-year-old began the current campaign with victory over two miles at Down Royal in November. He then proceeded to bolt up in Grade 1 company at Leopardstown over Christmas, on his first attempt over three miles.
It would be no surprise to see him bang in the mix if lining up here and he’s likely to put in a huge display wherever he ends up.
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