DOWN ROYAL, Northern Ireland — The remarkable 11-year-old Envoi Allen captured a record third victory in the BetVictor Champion Chase at Down Royal on Saturday, moving ahead of legendary dual winners Beef Or Salmon, Kauto Star and Road To Respect.

In what trainer Henry de Bromhead described as perhaps his most impressive performance in the race, Envoi Allen defied favoritism to repel all challengers in the Grade One highlight, winning by three and three-quarter lengths over Affordale Fury.

Under jockey Darragh O'Keeffe, Envoi Allen was sent off at 11-4 odds, with Found A Fifty the 2-1 favorite in what shaped up as a tight contest. Galway Plate winner Western Fold set out to make the running and was joined by Affordale Fury before Envoi Allen entered the argument, edging in front at the third-last obstacle and really asserting his authority after the penultimate fence.

The veteran chaser was in complete control jumping the final fence and galloped strongly to the line, adding to his 2022 and 2024 victories in this race and securing the 10th Grade One win of his illustrious career.

"He's getting a bit older now, but he didn't look it there, in fairness to him," said De Bromhead. O'Keeffe reported that when the horse jumped the third-last, it was like he had just come into the race. "That is probably the most impressive he has won it in the last while. He is class."

The victory was particularly sweet as it came seven months after Envoi Allen finished third in the Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham in March. For a horse in the twilight of his career, Saturday's performance showed he has lost none of his competitive fire.

Despite the impressive victory, bookmaker Paddy Power installed Envoi Allen as a 33-1 chance for the Ryanair Chase next March, though De Bromhead was non-committal about future plans immediately after the race.

"I don't really want to say anything yet, I'm not sure what will happen," the trainer said, acknowledging the need to carefully manage the veteran campaigner's schedule.

Envoi Allen's career has been nothing short of exceptional. Beginning with a Champion Bumper victory at Cheltenham, he has captured three Festival triumphs and compiled a resume that includes placings in the Champion Chase and Ryanair Chase even on his off days.

For owners Cheveley Park Stud, the victory provided another memorable day with a horse who has delivered far more good days than bad throughout his distinguished career. As one of jump racing's most consistent performers, Envoi Allen continues to defy age and expectations in the Grade One arena.