31 March 2024 , 12:17
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Constitution Hill has been treated for colic during “a few traumatic days” for the unbeaten 2023 Champion Hurdler as Nicky Henderson warned: “We are not out of the woods yet.”
The Michael Buckley-owned seven-year-old has been limited to just one start this season - a repeat victory in the Grade 1 Christmas Hurdle at Kempton Park on Boxing Day - and was forced to miss his Champion Hurdle defence at Cheltenham when hit by a virus.
But Henderson revealed Constitution Hill has endured more serious health concerns over the past few days, being taken to veterinary hospital on Wednesday after suffering an attack of colic.
“We have had a few traumatic days with poor Constitution Hill as he had to go to the veterinary hospital on Wednesday night in order to monitor suspected colic,” said the Seven Barrows trainer.
“I am pleased to say that they have managed to avoid surgery so far and this morning he is being reintroduced to a normal diet and if this goes well he could come home in the next day or so.”
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Colic, a condition affecting a horse’s intestinal system, can prove fatal and Henderson added: “We are not completely out of the woods but very hopeful that he will soon be back which will be an enormous relief.”
On the back of a one-race campaign, Constitution Hill was being lined up for an eagerly awaited appearance at the Punchestown Festival.
But a challenge for the Boodles Champion Hurdle - and a clash with 2024 Champion Hurdle victor State Man - on May 3 now looks unlikely.
“This will obviously interfere with our plan to get to Punchestown which is very sad but the only important thing at the moment is to get him safely home,” said Henderson.