As the 2024 Cheltenham Festival looms on the horizon, the anticipation among National Hunt racing enthusiasts was palpable.
However, the news of Constitution Hill’s setback that became apparent during a workout at Kempton cast a shadow over the event.
The confirmation from Nicky Henderson that the star hurdler would miss defending his crown in the Champion Hurdle not only shook up the race but also left a significant impact on the Festival itself.
Constitution Hill’s absence has left a gaping void in the Champion Hurdle, but it has also set the stage for a new favourite in the racing betting to emerge.
State Man, trained by the renowned Willie Mullins, now finds himself thrust into the spotlight as the frontrunner to claim victory — with odds of 1/3 reflecting the overwhelming confidence of racing enthusiasts and pundits alike.
State Man’s credentials as a formidable contender are undeniable. With an impressive record of 10 wins from 12 outings under Mullins’ tutelage, State Man has proven himself as a force to be reckoned with on the hurdling circuit.
Despite finishing a rather distant second to Constitution Hill in last year’s renewal of the Champion Hurdle, State Man’s consistent performances at the highest level make him a worthy favourite in the absence of his rival.
However, State Man is not the only horse to benefit from Constitution Hill’s withdrawal.
Lossiemouth — another of Mullins’ charges — has seen herodds shorten, enhancing Mullins’ dominance in the race.
Lossiemouth’s commanding victory in the International Hurdle at Cheltenham showcased her potential, although speculation remains about her preferred destination between the Champion Hurdle and the Mares’ Hurdle.
Irish Point, trained by Gordon Elliott, has also seen a surge in support following Constitution Hill’s absence.
With notable victories in Grade 3 and Grade 1 contests this season, Irish Point’s odds have been slashed, positioning him as a contender for the Champion Hurdle title.
However, questions linger over whether the Stayers’ Hurdle might be a more suitable target for the talented six-year-old.
Another horse to watch in the reshaped market is Luccia, whose odds have been significantly cut from 50/1 to 14/1.
Despite a disappointing performance at last year’s Festival, Luccia bounced back with a victory in the Betfair Exchange Trophy at Ascot in December — reigniting hopes of a strong showing at Cheltenham.
However, the competition in the Champion Hurdle remains formidable, and Luccia faces a tough challenge to emerge victorious.
In a surprising twist, Henderson announced the supplementation of Iberico Lord for the Champion Hurdle —further adding intrigue to the race.
With impressive performances in recent Premier Handicaps,including the Betfair Hurdle, Iberico Lord enters the fray, with soft ground potentially playing to his strengths.
Constitution Hill’s absence has undeniably reshaped the landscape of the Champion Hurdle, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown at Cheltenham.
While uncertainties abound and spanners have been thrown into the mix, State Man emerges as the frontrunner to seize victory and cement his status as the cream of this year’s renewal.
As the countdown to the Festival begins, anticipation builds, and racing fans eagerly await the spectacle that awaits them on the hallowed turf of Cheltenham.
