‘The loveliest horse’: four-timer Cheltenham Festival runner-up delighting in life after racing
Melon, pictured in his racing days with jockey Paul Townend.
(Image credit: Alamy Stock Photo)
Four-time Cheltenham Festival runner-up Melon is relishing life after racing, settling into his new job “wonderfully”.
The 10-year-old, trained by Willie Mullins, enjoyed multiple graded victories and was a consistent performer for owners Joe and Marie Donnelly in his racing career.
He joined the pair at the end of June and any plans for Melon’s life now will be led by him.
“He settled in beautifully and he is the easiest horse we have ever had. He’s obviously had a very good foundation in life,” said Sophie, who rides him at home while Joe partners him as part of Team Rideaway in team chases.
The Medicean son, bred by Newsells Park Stud, enjoyed six wins from his 33 starts under Rules, finishing in the frame on 12 other occasions.
“It’s quite a lot for a horse to come out of a yard of the kind he is used to, to one where there are only six in,” Sophie added.
“He has become fresher the more team chasing he has done, but on the gallops he is a total pro and knows exactly what he is doing. Ours always have a few days off after team chasing at the weekends, and the last few Wednesdays and Thursdays he’s put in a couple of squeals and bucks! He is definitely enjoying himself.
“He’s a beautiful, big horse and I do maybe fancy having a go at some Retraining of Racehorses dressage and showing and parades with him, perhaps a bit of hunting because he is such a gentleman. We will see where he wants to take us.”
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