Strong Leader to see wind specialist after Long Walk flop as Olly Murphy targets Cleeve Hurdle in late January

A breathing issue has been identified as the reason for Strong Leader's disappointing performance in the Long Walk Hurdle, said trainer Olly Murphy.

The Liverpool and Long Distance Hurdle winner went into Saturday's Grade 1 as the 11-8 favourite but finished last of ten, 75 lengths adrift of winner Crambo.

Murphy's belief that the run was "too bad to be true" prompted a series of tests, which highlighted the likely cause.

Strong Leader will have a small correctional procedure and Murphy has circled the Grade 2 Cleeve Hurdle at Cheltenham on January 25 as his possible return date.

Murphy told the Racing Post: "He's got a wind issue. I'm glad something has come to light because it was way too bad to be true.

"He's due to see wind-specialist Ben Brain at the back end of the week and we'll go from there. It's something that can be solved and while it was very disappointing on the day, I'm glad there was a reason and we'll get it sorted."

In response to his Ascot disappointment Strong Leader was eased from a general 10-1 to a best-priced 25-1 for the Paddy Power Stayers' Hurdle at Cheltenham in March.

Murphy said: "We'll have him back ready to hopefully run in something like the Cleeve if his wind operation goes well. When a horse stops that quick, it's not through ability. He's beaten Crambo and Hiddenvalley Lake well [before] and that's the most frustrating part of it.

"He never turned up on the day as he had a health issue, which he's never had before."

Paddy Power Stayers' Hurdle

Sponsors bet: 7-4 Teahupoo, 16 Home By The Lee, Crambo & Hiddenvalley Lake, 20 Strong Leader, I Am Maximus, Langer Dan, Losange Bleu, The Wallpark, Lucky Place, 25 bar

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