Nina Carberry

Nina Carberry, a former champion Irish National Hunt jockey, has successfully transitioned into the world of children's literature. Known for her remarkable achievements in horse racing, including winning the Irish Grand National and multiple victories at the Cheltenham Festival, Carberry is now bringing her love of horses and adventure to a younger audience through her writing.

Her debut children's book, Ride to the Rescue, is the first in a three-part series illustrated by Nuno Alexander Viera that explores themes of courage, teamwork and the bond between humans and animals.

Carberry was born into a well-known racing family in County Meath, Ireland. Her father, Tommy Carberry, was a celebrated jockey and trainer, and her brothers Philip and Paul also pursued successful careers in horse racing. Growing up in this environment, Carberry's love for horses was inevitable, and she began riding competitively at a young age. Her first significant victory came at sixteen when she won the Ladies Derby at the Curragh Racecourse. Her talent and determination quickly made her a prominent figure in National Hunt racing.

After a distinguished career, which included becoming the second woman to win the Irish Amateur Jockey Championship and achieving multiple wins at the Cheltenham Festival, Carberry decided to retire in 2018. However, her passion for storytelling and connection with horses led her to explore a new path as a children's book author.

"Writing about horses comes naturally to me. I want to share the joy and adventure I've experienced with young readers," Carberry explained in a recent interview.

Ride to the Rescue follows the adventures of a group of young friends who come together to use their equestrian skills to save the day. The book teaches important lessons about friendship, responsibility and community in the beautiful Irish countryside. Carberry's own experiences, both on and off the racecourse, lend authenticity to the story, making it relatable to children who dream of one day riding a horse.

Carberry's most recent book in the series, Snow Pony Express (2024), continues this theme of adventure and bravery. In this story, siblings Grace and Aaron face a snowstorm that shuts down their town, leading them to create a makeshift delivery service using their pony and sledge.