Melbourne Cup is the dream for Constitution Hill owner Michael Buckley
Michael Buckley, owner of Constitution Hill, expresses his ambition for the horse to compete in the 2026 Melbourne Cup after a successful Flat race debut.
Michael Buckley, the owner of the renowned racehorse Constitution Hill, has set his sights on the Melbourne Cup as a primary goal for the horse's future. Following a remarkable victory in a novice Flat race that was specifically arranged for Constitution Hill, Buckley revealed that despite no final decisions regarding participation in the upcoming Champion Hurdle, he is keen to focus on a Flat campaign leading up to the prestigious 2026 Melbourne Cup.
This goal was underscored by Constitution Hill's impressive performance, winning decisively by nine-and-a-half lengths, which has heightened expectations around the horse's versatility and potential success in different racing formats. Buckley has indicated that he is in discussions with trainer Nicky Henderson about prioritizing the Flat campaign for the remainder of the year, momentarily sidelining considerations for jumps racing events like the Champion Hurdle.
The Melbourne Cup, known as the 'race that stops the nation', represents a significant aspiration for Buckley, drawn from the horseβs capabilities displayed in its recent performance. If Buckley and Henderson succeed in crafting a competitive Flat campaign, the reach for such a prestigious title could elevate Constitution Hill's status even further in the racing community, showcasing the horse's dual racing talent and ambition of its owner.