In racing, the connection between trainer and horse often runs far deeper than the public ever sees. Few illustrate that bond more clearly than Nicky Henderson, who has spoken openly throughout his career about the emotional highs and devastating lows that come with training elite racehorses.

One of the most powerful examples followed the remarkable comeback of Sprinter Sacre, whose second victory in the Queen Mother Champion Chase remains one of National Hunt racing’s great modern stories. Henderson has frequently reflected on that period with deep emotion — not simply because of the scale of the achievement, but because of what the horse meant to everyone at Seven Barrows.

Moments like that highlight a truth sometimes overlooked in a results-driven sport: behind every major contender is a team that cares profoundly about the animal itself.

Henderson has also shared more painful memories that reveal the same depth of feeling. Two highly talented chasers, Triolo D'Alene and Simonsig, formed a notably close companionship in the yard. Turned out together during a summer break, the pair became inseparable and were later stabled side by side, always within sight of one another.

Tragically, Simonsig lost his life after suffering a fatal injury at Cheltenham Racecourse. Henderson later described how Triolo D’Alene appeared unsettled when his companion failed to return — a moment that underlined just how strong the bonds between horses can be.

Stories such as these matter now more than ever as Henderson weighs what could be the defining decision of his training career.

There is no doubt how highly he regards Constitution Hill. The former champion possesses extraordinary natural ability, and at his peak looked capable of dominating the hurdling division for years.

Yet racing is rarely straightforward.

Recent seasons have presented serious concerns after a sequence of heavy falls — three in his last four starts — each raising understandable questions about risk versus reward. That the horse has avoided major injury is fortunate, but the pattern cannot be ignored.

Despite those setbacks, the betting market continues to show respect. Constitution Hill remains prominent in the wagering for the Champion Hurdle, a reflection both of his known brilliance and the lack of a truly outstanding rival this season.

If something close to his former level still exists, and he safely negotiates the obstacles, he would have every chance of reclaiming his crown.

But ability alone is not the only factor in play.

The decision to run carries weight far beyond a single race.

Owner Michael Buckley will inevitably be central to the final call, yet Henderson’s judgement — built on decades at the very top of the sport — is likely to prove decisive.

Encouraging reports from Seven Barrows suggest the horse is in excellent physical condition, but fitness does not eliminate the broader question: is it the right moment to return to the biggest stage?

Because Cheltenham is not just another meeting.

It is the sport’s shop window.

Any serious incident there would spark uncomfortable debate extending well beyond the immediate connections.

British racing authorities are understood to be maintaining awareness of the situation, trusting that any decision made will place the horse’s welfare above all else — exactly as it should.

For racing fans, the dilemma is obvious.

A triumphant comeback would rank among the great Festival stories, the kind that defines sporting legacy. But the alternative is difficult to contemplate, particularly in an era where the sport operates under increasing public scrutiny.

Ultimately, only those closest to Constitution Hill can make the call.

Few trainers are more experienced in managing elite talent than Henderson, and few will consider the responsibility more carefully.

One thing feels certain: if Constitution Hill lines up at Cheltenham, it will be because his trainer truly believes it is the correct decision.

Even so, judgement calls in racing rarely come bigger than this.