Oisin Murphy to Ride Constitution Hill in Flat Debut at Southwell, Announces Generous Donation to Horse Shelter

In a move that has electrified the horse racing world, five-time British champion jockey Oisin Murphy has officially confirmed he will partner the legendary Constitution Hill for the gelding’s highly anticipated debut on the Flat at Southwell later this month.

The announcement, coming directly from Murphy himself, has sent waves of excitement through the racing community, heightened further by the jockey’s heartfelt revelation that he intends to donate his entire prize money from the race day to a former horse shelter that played a meaningful role in supporting equine welfare—particularly in the final days of some of his own cherished four-legged companions.

The news broke amid growing speculation about Constitution Hill’s next chapter following a challenging period over hurdles. The nine-year-old son of Blue Bresil, trained by Nicky Henderson at Seven Barrows, remains one of the most celebrated names in National Hunt racing. He burst onto the scene as a dominant force, claiming the Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival in 2022 and 2023 with breathtaking performances that showcased his exceptional speed, stamina, and jumping ability.

Under jockey Nico de Boinville, Constitution Hill established himself as arguably the greatest hurdler of his generation, unbeaten in his early career and earning comparisons to legends of the sport.

However, recent seasons have been marred by misfortune. The gelding has fallen in three of his last four starts over hurdles, raising questions about his continued suitability for jumping fences. Trainer Henderson, ever the strategist, has long expressed interest in exploring the Flat option as a way to extend the horse’s career and test his versatility. Southwell Racecourse stepped up to accommodate this ambition by staging a specially arranged 1 mile and 6 furlongs novice contest on February 20, providing the ideal low-key environment for Constitution Hill’s transition to the level track.

The all-weather surface at Southwell, known for its Tapeta footing, offers a safe and fair test, and the distance aligns well with the horse’s proven stamina.

Murphy’s involvement adds significant star power to the occasion. The Irish-born jockey, currently in top form and holding the champion jockey title for 2025, visited Seven Barrows earlier this week to ride Constitution Hill for the first time. According to reports from the yard, the session went smoothly: the horse completed stalls practice before enjoying a confident gallop, leaving both Murphy and Henderson pleased with his condition and attitude. “Oisin came in and rode him this morning,” Henderson told the Press Association.

“He had another bit of stalls practice and then he had a gallop and Oisin was happy.” The jockey’s experience on both Flat and jumps makes him an ideal choice, bringing tactical nous and a calm demeanor that could prove invaluable for a horse stepping into unfamiliar territory.

Yet, what has truly captured the public’s imagination is Murphy’s personal gesture of generosity. In a discreet but profoundly moving announcement, the jockey shared that any prize money he earns from the Southwell race will be directed entirely to a horse sanctuary he holds dear. This shelter, which once provided care and refuge for retired and injured racehorses—including several that Murphy had formed close bonds with during his career—supported those animals in their twilight years.

Murphy has long been vocal about his deep affection for the horses he rides, often speaking of the emotional connections formed through shared triumphs and challenges on the track. The decision to honor those “four-legged friends” in their final days reflects a side of the sport rarely highlighted amid the glamour of big prizes and major festivals.

The racing community has responded with overwhelming positivity. Social media platforms have lit up with messages of support, admiration, and shared stories of similar acts of kindness in the industry. Fans, trainers, owners, and fellow jockeys have praised Murphy not only for his riding prowess but for using his platform to give back in such a tangible way. In an era where headlines often focus on controversies or commercial aspects of racing, this story stands out as a reminder of the deep humanity and compassion that underpin the bond between humans and horses.

For Henderson and owner Michael Buckley, the primary focus remains on Constitution Hill’s performance. The trainer has emphasized that the Southwell outing is exploratory, aimed at assessing whether the Flat could offer a sustainable future for the horse. While a return to hurdles—potentially even another tilt at the Champion Hurdle—has not been entirely ruled out, Henderson has stressed that all attention is currently on this single assignment. “We’re only concentrating on this race at Southwell at the moment, that’s all we’re talking about,” he said.

Should Constitution Hill adapt seamlessly to the Flat, it could open exciting new avenues, perhaps targeting prestigious all-weather or turf contests later in the year. His class is undeniable; even in defeat or mishap over hurdles, he has shown glimpses of brilliance that suggest untapped potential on the level. Murphy, meanwhile, approaches the ride with characteristic professionalism, viewing it as both a privilege and a challenge.

As February 20 draws nearer, anticipation continues to build. Tickets for Southwell are expected to sell briskly, with enthusiasts eager to witness one of racing’s modern greats make history in a new discipline. Beyond the competitive drama, however, Murphy’s charitable pledge ensures the day will carry deeper significance—a celebration of talent, transition, and tenderness toward the animals at the heart of the sport.

In confirming his ride and his donation, Oisin Murphy has reminded everyone why horse racing endures: it is not merely about speed and victory, but about loyalty, gratitude, and the quiet acts of kindness that bind a community together. The entire racing world will be watching Southwell closely, hearts full of hope for Constitution Hill’s new beginning and appreciation for a jockey whose generosity has touched millions.