CONSTITUTION Hill (155+) makes it look easier each time he appears on the track as he extended his winning distance over Epatante (138) from Newcastle, while not having to be at his best on the clock to register another Grade 1 success in the Christmas Hurdle.

Rider Nico De Boinville accepted a lead on this occasion, allowing Highway One O Two his moment in the sun. However, with his mount jumping with accuracy the partnership assumed command at the last flight in the back straight before sauntering to victory.

A straight comparison with the overall time recorded by Rare Edition (145+) shows the novice to have covered the two miles just 1.7secs slower. However, the difference through the final circuit extends to 4.2secs in favour of the red-hot Champion Hurdle favourite.

There was nothing to choose between the pair through the closing sectionals as they both stopped the clock at 78.1secs from the third-last hurdle to suggest Charlie Longsdon has an above-average novice hurdler in his care.

Grey Dawning (125), who landed a gamble in the concluding race, adds credibility to the performances as he was slower over the final circuit by 7.2secs and 3.0secs respectively.

Dan Skelton’s gelding was also no match through the closing stages as he completed his race in 80.8secs.

Another clash

The bonus on the card was the rerouted Long Walk Hurdle and another clash between Champ (140) and Paisley Park (145). It was victory to Emma Lavelle’s admirable gelding as once straightened for home and through his customary flat spot always looked likely to run down Champ and Goshen (141).

The sectionals were slow, portraying it was a test of stamina as Paisley Park covered the final circuit even slower than Grey Dawning as he finished off the slowest, stopping the clock at 84.1secs for his closing split.