It hasn’t been easy for Constitution Hill this season… but just try & get State Man to stop him, roars Nicky Henderson

THREE weeks tomorrow jumps racing’s star turn Constitution Hill will bid for back-to-back Champion Hurdle victories - and the chilling message to big Irish rival State Man is that he’s ready to rock and roll.

Nicky Henderson told me: “Constitution Hill was just where I wanted him when he worked on Saturday. He’s ready.

“It hasn’t always been easy this season. But he’s right there now. We are ready for State Man and anyone else who takes us on.

“I’ll probably run First Street, who hasn’t been done any favours by the handicapper, and Luccia as well.”

Constitution Hill, the best of British owned by Michael Buckley, is generally 1-3 for the Champion Hurdle, with State Man - the big hope of Ireland who was well beaten in the 2023 showpiece - at about 11-4.

For many Henderson’s big-race charge will not be a betting proposition, but should he score the roar will still be something to behold as the Cheltenham crowd always loves a superstar in fluent action.

Added to which, following the loss of the Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle, Constitution Hill has only been seen once this term when dotting up in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton.

Game on.

The jump jockeys’ championship is a belter between two talented and fun lads in Harry Cobden and Sean Bowen.

The former edged ahead over the weekend, but while Bowen headed up to Carlisle today, Cobden took the day off.

When Bowen was out of action last week one afternoon, Cobden suggested he rival must have been having a “spa” day.

Rest assured, though, Bowen is not for conceding this title.

In reference to Pic d’Orhy’s romp at Ascot in the Grade 1 Ascot Chase Saturday, Bowen teased: “Harry had his fun steering his machines around on the weekend. Now for the proper work this week.”

Bring it on boys. Bring it on.

I’m off to Liverpool tomorrow for the Grand National weights lunch.

Sun Racing will bring you all the action as it happens online, there'll be a full breakdown in the Favourite pullout on Wednesday and more on Sky Sports Racing throughout the day.

As well as Aintree news we’ll be banging out Cheltenham bulletins from the event and there’s usually loads to report on. So look forward to all the best interviews on the day.

Finally a reminder we are having a Cheltenham Preview night at the Sun headquarters on March 6.

I’ll be there alongside leading owner Rich Ricci, broadcaster Nick Luck, Gina Andrews, a huge part of the Dan Skelton team and with a big ride in the Cross Country Chase at the Festival, as well, of course, as our top tipster Templegate.

Buy your ticket right here - it should be a cracker!

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