Constitution Hill

The partnership with jockey Nico de Boinville has been the spine of this horse's career. They have raced together thirteen times and de Boinville has guided Constitution Hill to victory in ten of those races—a 77 percent win rate that suggests a rare understanding between rider and horse. But the real signature of this partnership is Kempton Park. Constitution Hill owns that track with four wins from five races there, a dominance so complete that the horse has become synonymous with one of British racing's most testing venues. The most recent Kempton victory came in March, six months ago, but the frequency of wins at that course suggests Constitution Hill will return there gladly.

Trainer Nicky Henderson, based at Upper Lambourn in Berkshire, has overseen a resurrection of sorts. The stable's recent comments hint at a period of uncertainty—something went wrong at the end of last season—but Henderson has methodically rebuilt the horse, checking everything from jumping technique to eyesight. The latest win at Southwell in February, only a day ago, carries real weight. Henderson spoke of Constitution Hill "enjoying himself" again and the race opening "lots of doors." Recent form reads as mixed—two wins in the last six races—but at nine years old and fresh from a Class 2 victory, this horse appears ready to prove that age is merely a number. The quality of opposition it faces at Class 1 level, combined with its proven ability to deliver on the biggest stages, marks Constitution Hill as a horse still very much in its prime.