If it is possible to win one of Cheltenham’s championship races too easily, then Constitution Hill did just that here on Tuesday, as he accelerated nine lengths clear of State Man, Ireland’s champion over hurdles, under a hand ride to add the 2023 Champion Hurdle to his unbeaten record. He went into the race as the hottest favourite in its history, and emerged with his status as one of the best hurdlers of all time duly confirmed, but National Hunt fans will now wonder if they will see a fresh question answered: is there anything that Constitution Hill cannot do?
There are now six “1s” in front of his name after Tuesday’s effortless success, achieved with a minimum of fuss after Constitution Hill’s rider, Nico de Boinville, sat within striking distance of the lead throughout before clearing away for home off the final turn. For the sixth time in a row, Constitution Hill’s rivals failed to scratch the surface of his talent, to gain even a hint of what still lies beneath.
