Cheveley Park Stud’s Richard Thompson is open to another King George VI Chase bid for Envoi Allen after the 10-year-old’s thrilling victory at Down Royal on Saturday. Under trainer Henry de Bromhead, Envoi Allen battled Hewick to win the Ladbrokes Champion Chase for a second time, proving he still has plenty to give.
Thompson, attending a reunion and unable to see the win in person, was ecstatic about the result. "He’s a 16-time winner, nine-time Grade One victor, and three-time Cheltenham Festival winner. He’s 10 now and still in top form," he shared, highlighting the horse’s exceptional career alongside stablemates A Plus Tard and Allaho.
In 2022, Envoi Allen was disappointed as a top pick for the King George, finishing last under jockey Rachael Blackmore. However, de Bromhead hinted at another attempt, and Thompson is on board. "He owes us nothing, and if Henry thinks he’s ready for the King George, I’d be thrilled. It’s a favourite Boxing Day tradition for me."
With A Plus Tard and Allaho retired, and no new horses purchased this season, Cheveley Park’s winter team will focus on a smaller lineup of familiar names, including Sir Gerhard, Grangeclare West, and Ferny Hollow. Reflecting on Cheveley Park’s National Hunt journey, Thompson said, "We’ve won 26 Grade Ones with this group, and I’d love to hit 30. We’re mostly a Flat operation, but this has been a wonderful chapter since 2019."