Nicky Henderson, one of Britain's most successful national hunt trainers, shares heartfelt memories of his time with the Queen Mother and reflects on the extraordinary journey of Constitution Hill, an unbeaten racehorse set to compete at Cheltenham. The trainer discusses the importance of royal support in the racing world and how horses provide solace and joy for both the monarchy and the public. Despite initial doubts about Constitution Hill's potential, the horse has become a symbol of resilience and excellence, capturing the hearts of many.

Memories of Racing Royalty

Henderson reminisces about the lively and enjoyable moments spent with the Queen Mother, highlighting her passion for racing and her love for unconventional company. The trainer recalls her visits to his kitchen, filled with racing memorabilia, where they would enjoy hearty breakfasts and sing together. Her preference for a more relaxed and male-dominated atmosphere made these gatherings particularly memorable. Henderson also speaks fondly of his conversations with Queen Elizabeth II, noting that discussing horses provided her with a welcome respite from her duties.

The Queen Mother was known for her enjoyment of life’s pleasures, especially when it came to racing. Nicky Henderson, who trained over 60 winners for her, remembers her as someone who relished the company of rogues and enjoyed singing along during their lively lunches. She often visited Henderson’s home, where they shared meals and stories. Queen Elizabeth II, too, found comfort in talking about horses, which offered her a break from the pressures of her role. Henderson cherished their Sunday calls, sometimes short and sweet, other times stretching into hours of discussion about foals and pedigrees. Both queens had strong opinions and were not afraid to voice them, especially when it came to matters of the heart—or in this case, the racetrack.

The Rise of a Racing Icon

Constitution Hill, an eight-year-old gelding, has captured the attention of the racing world with an impeccable record of ten consecutive wins. Set to compete in the Unibet Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, he is favored by many, including a significant portion of the expected 70,000-strong crowd. Despite early challenges, including health issues that sidelined him for a year, Constitution Hill has proven his mettle, returning stronger than ever. His laid-back demeanor off the track contrasts sharply with his lightning speed on it, making him a unique and beloved figure in the sport.

Constitution Hill’s journey to stardom was not without its hurdles. Initially, Henderson was uncertain about the horse’s potential, noting his slow trot and tendency to lie down. However, one morning, during a hill climb exercise, Constitution Hill demonstrated exceptional speed, leaving the others far behind. This moment marked the beginning of his rise to fame. Since then, he has won every race he has entered, earning £870,000 in prize money and amassing a devoted fan base. Off the track, Constitution Hill enjoys a pampered lifestyle, lounging in his bed until late mornings and indulging in carrots and heat lamp sessions. Even after missing a year due to health issues, he returned triumphantly, winning races and bringing tears to Henderson’s eyes. As Cheltenham approaches, all eyes are on this remarkable horse, who embodies the spirit of perseverance and excellence in the racing world.