The scene appeared almost surreal.
Usually phlegmatic despite an unfailing passion, Xavier Papot collapsed in the presentation round following the victory of his champion,
Sel Jem
, in the legendary Grand Steeple-Chase of Paris, yesterday at the Auteuil racecourse.
A welcome bottle of water will not have been too much for the owner to regain his senses.
The winner's jersey has already marked the history of French jumping but again struck a blow this weekend with three Group I victories.
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