Saphir Du Rheu to undergo breathing operation

Saphir Du Rheu is to undergo a breathing operation today following his lacklustre effort in the Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot.

Despite travelling well for much of the three-mile Grade One contest the Paul Nicholls-trained six-year-old folded tamely when asked for maximum effort.

Staying on at the one pace, the Hennessy Gold Cup fifth occupied the same position as he finished more than 30 lengths adrift of winner Thistlecrack.