How Does Constitution Hill Compare to Hurdling’s All-Time Greats?

In this article, we assess his credentials alongside some of the greatest hurdlers ever to grace the sport

Few horses in the history of National Hunt racing have captivated audiences quite like Constitution Hill. Trained by Nicky Henderson and owned by Michael Buckley, the unbeaten superstar has already secured his place among the modern greats of hurdling. But as we look ahead to the 2025 Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival, the question remains; how does Constitution Hill compare to the all-time legends of the division? In this article, we assess his credentials alongside some of the greatest hurdlers ever to grace the sport, including Istabraq, Night Nurse and Hurricane Fly.

Constitution Hill: A Superstar in the Making?

Since bursting onto the scene with an extraordinary 22-length demolition in the 2022 Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, Constitution Hill has continued to dominate the hurdling division. His Champion Hurdle victory in 2023 was breathtaking, and his ability to travel effortlessly before quickening away from rivals makes him one of the most visually impressive hurdlers in history.

However, with his 2024 campaign disrupted due to health concerns, questions linger about his return. Will he be the same horse? Can he maintain his unbeaten record and add another Champion Hurdle to his tally in 2025?

If he returns at his best, it’s hard to see any current rival matching his raw ability. But where does he stand among the all-time greats?

The Greatest Hurdlers of All Time

Istabraq – The Benchmark for Greatness

• Champion Hurdle Wins: 3 (1998, 1999, 2000)
• Trainer: Aidan O’Brien
• Jockey: Charlie Swan

If there’s one name that dominates Champion Hurdle history, it’s Istabraq. The Irish superstar was untouchable in the late 1990s, winning three consecutive renewals of the race. A potential fourth victory in 2001 was cruelly denied when foot-and-mouth disease forced the cancellation of Cheltenham.

Istabraq’s legacy is built on his incredible turn of foot, relentless consistency, and ability to dominate multiple seasons. Constitution Hill has the potential to match him, but with just one Champion Hurdle to his name so far, he has some way to go.

Night Nurse – The Highest-Rated Hurdler Ever

• Champion Hurdle Wins: 2 (1976, 1977)
• Trainer: Peter Easterby
• Jockey: Paddy Broderick

Night Nurse holds the distinction of being the highest-rated hurdler in history, with a Timeform rating of 182. Unlike Constitution Hill, who travels powerfully before quickening clear, Night Nurse was an iron horse – tough, relentless, and able to grind his rivals into submission.

His battles with Monksfield and Sea Pigeon in the golden era of hurdling remain legendary, and his ability to win in a fast-run race or a tactical affair was second to none. Constitution Hill has been breathtaking so far, but to surpass Night Nurse’s achievements, he would need to dominate the division for multiple seasons.

Hurricane Fly – The Ultimate Consistency Machine

• Champion Hurdle Wins: 2 (2011, 2013)
• Trainer: Willie Mullins
• Jockeys: Ruby Walsh, Paul Townend

Few hurdlers have shown the longevity and consistency of Hurricane Fly, who won a record 22 Grade 1 races. While some questioned his ability to perform at Cheltenham after suffering defeat in 2012, he bounced back to reclaim the Champion Hurdle crown in 2013.

His greatest strength was his adaptability – he could travel strongly and quicken on any ground, making him one of the most versatile hurdlers of all time. If Constitution Hill can sustain his dominance over multiple seasons, he may challenge Hurricane Fly’s legacy.

Faugheen – The Machine

• Champion Hurdle Wins: 1 (2015)
• Trainer: Willie Mullins
• Jockey: Ruby Walsh

Nicknamed ‘The Machine’, Faugheen looked destined to dominate the division for years after his 2015 Champion Hurdle victory. However, injuries disrupted his career, preventing him from building an extended legacy.

Faugheen’s blend of raw speed and power made him a fan favourite, but ultimately, Constitution Hill’s career trajectory looks stronger. If he can stay sound and return to his best in 2025, he will surpass Faugheen’s achievements.