Melanite's win extends trainer Thompson's hot streak

Trainer John Thompson has continued his strong start to the season, with Melanite delivering a victory in the Midway Handicap at Randwick, adding to his tally of three metropolitan wins this week.

Following a successful double at Canterbury earlier in the week, Thompson's charge Melanite ($6.50) delivered on Saturday at Randwick, finding the rails to win the 1100-metre sprint by a neck from Cosy Corner ($19).

Bangkok Hottie ($2.10 favourite) ran a respectable third, enduring a tough run from out wide. Those seeking the best betting markets for the race would have been treated to another competitive Randwick affair.

Thompson and David Payne, trainer of Bangkok Hottie, watched the race together, with each believing their horse was the winner at different moments.

"We were giving each other commentary," Thompson quipped.

"When mine sprinted through, he said, 'I think you've got it' and I said, 'you're still coming'.

"He (Melanite) got a dream run. Box seated. The perfect run up the fence and never went around a horse."

This win represents Melanite's second success from ten starts, and Thompson believes the horse possesses considerable talent when circumstances favour him.

"He just needs everything to fall into place. He's got more wins in him," he said.

While David Payne was disappointed not to secure a win with Bangkok Hottie, he was pleased with the filly's resuming run. She had not had an official barrier trial leading into the race after dislodging her rider at trackwork the day before her intended trial.

The filly was blowing hard after the race, and Payne expects her to be much fitter for her next outing in the Silver Shadow Stakes (1200m) at Randwick in two weeks.

"She goes there. Maybe she will get a draw," Payne said.

"I was very pleased. It will only bring her on and he (jockey Chad Schofield) didn't punish her. She didn't have an easy run."

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