Shishkin granted permission for prompt comeback to Newcastle

Shishkin Set for Newcastle Trip Alongside Constitution Hill

In a surprising turn of events, Nicky Henderson has confirmed that Shishkin will be joining his esteemed stablemate, Constitution Hill, on the trip to Newcastle this Saturday to compete in the highly anticipated BetMGM Rehearsal Chase.

The multiple Grade One winner caused quite a stir last weekend when he refused to start in the 1965 Chase at Ascot. This left Henderson pondering what route to take with Shishkin as they aim to get their season back on track and prepare for the prestigious King George VI Chase on Boxing Day.

With limited alternative options available, Henderson made an announcement on Sunday that caught many by surprise – Shishkin could make a swift reappearance up north. While Constitution Hill had already embarked on the long journey from Lambourn to Gosforth Park in hopes of securing back-to-back victories in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle, now it appears Shishkin will join him.

Despite carrying a lofty rating of 173, which means he’ll have to shoulder 12 stone and concede over 21lb weight advantage against each competitor in Saturday’s finale, Shiskin has been given the green light to take his chances.

Henderson took to X (formerly Twitter) with an official statement: “Just wanted everyone informed that Shishkin is all set for running in the Rehearsal Chase this Saturday. Everything is fine with him, and he’ll travel up to Newcastle on Friday alongside Constitution Hill.”

As excitement builds for the event, racegoers eagerly await the clash between these two formidable horses. Will Shishkin’s refusal at Ascot impact his performance? Can Constitution Hill secure another victory in Gosforth Park? All will be revealed on Saturday.