Exeter Racecourse committee member behind hit ITV racing series
A Devon-born television producer and Exeter Racecourse committee member is celebrating the return of her hit ITV series Champions Full Gallop, which gallops back onto screens on Friday, October 17, in a prime-time 10pm slot.
Mel Leach, joint CEO of South Shore Productions, grew up immersed in the racing world and has used her lifelong passion for horses to create a show that takes viewers behind the scenes of National Hunt racing.
Filmed across the 2024–25 jump season, Champions Full Gallop follows the sport’s biggest names and unsung heroes, from jockeys and trainers to stable staff, revealing the dedication and emotion that drive Britain’s most traditional and thrilling sport.
“Racing is the most uncelebrated sport in Britain,” said Mel. “The jockeys, trainers and horses are incredible, yet few people outside the sport realise just how much passion and commitment go into it. My job is to make them famous.”
The programme, often described as racing’s answer to Drive to Survive, has been widely praised for its authentic portrayal of life on and off the course. It was made possible through unprecedented access granted by 14-time Champion Trainer Paul Nicholls, whose Somerset yard features prominently.
“We would never have made this show if it wasn’t for Paul,” Mel said. “He believed in what we were trying to do from the start and opened the door to make it happen.”
Among the standout personalities from the first series was jockey Harry Cobden. “Harry is Hollywood,” said Mel. “He’s got everything, charisma, humour and world-class talent. Every day in the edit suite I was saying, ‘More Harry!’”
This new series continues to shine a light on the unsung heroes of the sport: the grooms, stable staff and behind-the-scenes teams who work tirelessly in all weathers to care for the horses and prepare them for race day. “They’re the backbone of racing,” said Mel. “Without them, none of it would happen, and they deserve every bit of recognition this series brings.”
Mel’s connection to racing runs deep. Her father, Walter, who ran a print business in Ivybridge, owned several point-to-pointers and rarely missed a meeting. Mel inherited his enthusiasm, attending every point-to-point she could as a teenager and even watching the legendary Desert Orchid at Wincanton in 1988, a day that left a lasting impression.
That was the Jim Ford Challenge Cup, when the great grey was unexpectedly beaten by Kildimo, sending shockwaves through the racing world. After the final race, Mel managed to claim a few strands of Dessi’es tail, a treasured keepsake she still has today.
A lifelong supporter of grassroots racing, Mel makes an annual pilgrimage to the spring point-to-points held at Flete Park, South Devon to catch up with friends and enjoy the local action. “Flete reminds me why we all love this sport,” she said. “It’s real, it’s friendly, and it’s where the heart of racing beats strongest.”
As a child, Mel was a member of the Dartmoor Pony Club and rode an Anglo-Arab mare, Blachford Irene, who she describes as “a brilliant mix of talent and mischief”. “Sometimes we’d jump clear, sometimes she’d buck me off and jump out of the arena,” she laughed. “But I adored her.” Her daughter Velvet followed in her footsteps, competing as a teenager, while Rocky, her son, is a professional rugby player.
Now splitting her time between London and Devon, Mel remains a passionate advocate for Exeter Racecourse, where she serves on the committee. “Exeter is special,” she said. “It’s one of the most beautiful and honest racecourses in the country. The atmosphere here captures exactly what makes jump racing so unique.”
Jack Parkinson, General Manager at Exeter Racecourse, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have Mel on our committee. Her experience, passion and commitment to the sport shine through in everything she does, and Champions Full Gallop is a brilliant example of that. It’s fantastic to see someone with such strong local roots helping to bring National Hunt racing to a wider audience.”
With Champions Full Gallop returning this month, Mel hopes the series will inspire a new generation of fans to discover racing for themselves. “If someone watches the programme and decides to come racing at Exeter, that would make everything worthwhile,” she said.
Exeter’s next race meeting is on Tuesday, October 21 – PricedUp Best Mate Chase Day when Exeter celebrates one of jump racing’s greatest icons. Bring your best mate racing for free and enjoy a day packed with action and atmosphere, honouring the legendary Best Mate.
Dates for your diary
Friday 7 November – The BetMGM Haldon Gold Cup When Devon stops for racing, it’s for this. The BetMGM Haldon Gold Cup – Exeter’s showpiece event – marks 200 years since the Gold Cup was first awarded at the racecourse. Expect top-class action, a packed crowd, and a golden atmosphere across Haldon Hill. Tickets start from £20.
Monday 17 November – Heavitree Brewery Raceday Mid-November keeps the pace high with competitive fields and local flavour. Golden Tickets hidden in racecards offer the chance to win pub prizes, weekends away and vouchers, making it a day where great racing meets great hospitality.
Sunday 23 November – Devon Air Ambulance Raceday This much-loved fixture combines thrilling racing with community spirit, raising vital funds for the Devon Air Ambulance’s lifesaving work. Every ticket sold helps keep the helicopters flying.
Friday 5 December – ELF Raceday ‘Ho Ho Ho and Away We Go’ as Exeter gets festive in support of the Exeter Leukaemia Fund. Wear something Christmassy and enjoy a free drink while taking in a day of racing, fundraising and festive fun.
Thursday 18 December – PricedUp Christmas Cup A brand-new addition to the calendar, the PricedUp Christmas Cup brings sparkle to the track. The Winter Best Dressed competition will crown those who prove it’s possible to stay stylish and snug on Haldon Hill.
Thursday 1 January 2026 – PricedUp New Year’s Day Racing Kick off the year Devon-style with a day of exhilarating jump racing, live entertainment and festive cheer – a local tradition that never loses its magic.
