Constitution Hill may have a surprise trip to Bahrain marked on his calendar. Nicky Henderson has revealed a surprise new target for the nine-year-old after his September Stakes defeat. Saffie Osborne is still basking in the glory of her St Leger victory, but is now targeting further history in the Melbourne Cup.
Here is today’s racing news round-up for Wednesday.
Constitution Hill may head to Bahrain according to Henderson
A surprise venture to Bahrain is now on the agenda for Constitution Hill. The 2023 Champion Hurdle hero lost his unbeaten record in the Group 3 September Stakes at Kempton earlier this month. His fourth-placed effort there still merited a significant rise in his Official Rating though, leaving connections with fewer options than hoped. The Gulf of Bahrain Cup, on November 13, is a new 1m6f race. The Cumberland Lodge Stakes, or St Simon Stakes, are likely to come first on home shores. (The Sun)
Saffie Osborne eyes Melbourne Cup with Highwayman
Saffie Osborne has already created history this week after her success in the St Leger. She is now dreaming even bigger, as the Classic heroes may attempt a remarkable double in the Melbourne Cup. Two female jockeys have already won Australia’s most famous race, including Jamie Melham last year. However, Osborne could become the first foreign woman to win the contest as part of Joseph O’Brien’s expansive team. (Racing Post)
Amo to support Emmet Mullins after first Irish jumps runner
Amo Racing chief Kia Joorabchian has announced the ownership will support Emmet Mulins’ new venture. Mullins has purchased Jim Bolger’s Coolcullen yard with the aim of switching attentions primarily to the flat from National Hunt. Mullins won the Grand National in 2022 with Noble Yeats, but has also claimed the Cesarewitch on the flat with The Shunter in 2023. Joorabchian has said that: “We’re looking to give him a little support and hoping that the new yard will be lucky for him. (The Irish Field)
The first Amo runner for Mullins is set to compete this Saturday at Navan. This will be a first venture into jumps racing for the now famous purple silks. Dallas Star, a former Ballysax Stakes winner and Epsom Derby runner, will likely contest a maiden hurdle this weekend. Square Necker, runner-up to Constitution Hill on that horse’s flat debut in February, is also now in Mullins’ care. (Racing Post)
Venetian Sun up for sale in December
Commonwealth Cup winner Venetian Sun will go up for sale in December. The two-time Group 1 heroine will almost certainly prove the star attraction at the Tattersalls December Mares Sale. Patrick Veitch, who works closely with owner Tony Bloom, said that “we felt at some point along the line we have to make some sales,” in order to grow the ownership. (Sporting Life)