Historic Melbourne Cup win for Jamie Melham and Half Yours

Melbourne witnessed history today as Half Yours surged past the leaders to claim victory in the 2025 Melbourne Cup, guided by jockey Jamie Melham, only the second woman ever to win the iconic race.

The race was a dramatic thriller. Land Legend dominated early but faltered in the final stretch, allowing Half Yours to make a stunning late charge. Goodie Two Shoes finished second, with Middle Earth in third. The top ten also included River of Stars, Torranzino, Royal Supremacy, Al Riffa, Absurde, Changingoftheguard, and Meydaan.

Conditions were near perfect after a brief morning shower in Melbourne, but the tension began even before the gates opened, with a last-minute change to the race favorite.

Melham, who guided Half Yours to victory, reflected on a career-defining moment:

"This is what we do it for. We get up at 4 a.m., work our arses off for 15 years," she said.
"It's not always perfect, but nothing compares to this feeling. My grandpa passed away last week, and I feel him opening the gaps for me today. And my mum and dad—they've put up with me for all these years."

Fox Sports highlighted the historic nature of the win:

“Jamie Melham has become the second female jockey to win the great race, on the 10-year anniversary of Michelle Payne’s victory.”

Half Yours’ triumph isn’t just a race win but a story of persistence, heartbreak, and ultimate glory. For Melham, it’s a moment that will define her career, and for the Melbourne Cup, it’s another unforgettable chapter in its storied history.