Nicky Henderson says ‘sorry they won’t be turning up’ after raft of non-runners blights Sandown card
NICKY HENDERSON has apologised to punters after pulling out his biggest names from Tingle Creek day at Sandown.
The Seven Barrows boss has scratched Constitution Hill, Shishkin and Willmount from the blockbuster eight-race card.
The TimesThere will be no Constitution Hill at Sandown in the rearranged Fighting Fifth[/caption]
And Chantry House and Impose Toi could also be non-runners after the track survived an early morning inspection – but rain continues to fall.
It means the wait will go on to see reigning Champion Hurdle king and unbeaten superstar Constitution Hill.
He was due to kick off his season in the rearranged Fighting Fifth after it was swapped from a cancelled Newcastle last weekend.
But punters banking on an early Christmas present will now have to wait until Boxing Day.
Henderson wrote on X: “Due to the extremely testing going, we have decided that Constitution Hill will not run in today’s Fighting Fifth at Sandown because it would simply not be fair to race him under such extreme conditions on his first run of the season.
“It is too close to Boxing Day, and he can’t do both, so, all being well, he will now go straight to Kempton for the Christmas Hurdle.
“Shishkin has also been withdrawn, along with Willmount for his intended engagement in the Listed Novices’ Hurdle.
“I will speak to JP with regard to the participation of Impose Toi and Chantry House, but the good news is that Jonbon will take his chance in the Tingle Creek.
“He has had a run so is fit and well and the ground is much more suitable on the chase course.
“It is very unfortunate, and we are all sorry they won’t be turning up, but we have to put the horses first.
“It’s as simple as that.”
FREE BETS – GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS
Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. Begambleaware.org
Remember to gamble responsibly
A responsible gambler is someone who:
Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chases their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.begambleaware.org
