WILLIE MULLINS has done Nicky Henderson dirty and declared Lossiemouth for a spine-tingling Christmas Hurdle clash with Constitution Hill.
Former hurdler king Constitution Hill will make his long-awaited return to the track in an almighty clash against the stunning grey on Boxing Day – with huge ramifications for Cheltenham Festival.
Nicky Henderson’s unbeaten superstar has not raced since this time last year when he beat Rubaud in the same Christmas Hurdle.
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He hacked up in that and looked primed for the defence of his Champion Hurdle crown.
But then came the infamous Kempton workout, a brush with death and a slow return to full fitness.
His boss Hendo will have been hoping to ease him back into competitive action – but Mullins has other ideas.
His awesome Lossiemouth – currently favourite for the Champion Hurdle – will make the trip over from Ireland.
The amazing mare and former Triumph Hurdle winner, owned by Rich Ricci, made Teahupoo look like a handicapper in her recent Hatton’s Grace win.
And she will receive a 7lbs mares allowance from Constitution Hill in the powderkeg Grade 1.
Mullins is usually keen to separate the top horses and let them decide battles at Cheltenham Festival.
But by declaring Lossiemouth he has turned this Boxing Day bust-up into one for the ages.
Recent Greatwood Hurdle winner Burdett Road and Sam Thomas’ Welsh Champion Hurdle hero Lump Sum fill up the field of four.
More to follow.
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