Melon

His breakthrough came at Haydock Park in late September 2024, but the really telling win arrived on 23 January 2025 at Wetherby. That victory, coming after a difficult spell, impressed jockey Henry Brooke enough to comment that Melon felt entirely different from his previous outing. The horse travelled smoothly, jumped with real fluency, and despite a slightly uncertain moment at the final fence, found his way back on top when it mattered. Brooke noted his horse has a genuinely good attitude—which counts for more than most people realise in racing.

Since that Wetherby success, Melon has found the going tougher. His last six races tell the story: a tenth-place finish, two decent efforts (third and second), two blanks, and another third just a day ago. He has not added to his win tally in that stretch, which is frustrating for a horse clearly capable on his day. What is notable is that Melon has never won at the highest level—he has competed three times in top-class races and drawn a blank each time—but he remains effective at the right level, where conditions suit him and the race is built to his strengths.

Trainer Oliver Greenall, speaking before Christmas, acknowledged that Melon has endured some setbacks but backed him to improve. The trainer highlighted a familiar story: Melon thrived as a younger horse with the weight advantages young horses enjoy, and the jump to competing without those concessions proved tougher. Greenall's plan was to start the season fresh in races where those natural disadvantages matter less. The yard itself is in fine form, with 43 winners already this season, so Melon has the infrastructure and experience around him to kick on.