Time For Rupert was reported to have been coughing after finishing a disappointing fifth behind Bostons Angel in the RSA Chase at Cheltenham yesterday.
The seven-year-old, from Paul Webber’s Mollington stables, near Banbury, was sent off the 7-4 favourite, but was struggling from some way out.
A veterinary examination also revealed that Time For Rupert was ailing.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here