Clare Balding

Clare Balding is one of Britain's best-known broadcasters, a television and radio presenter, journalist, and author whose warmth and expertise have made her a beloved fixture of British sporting coverage. Born in 1971 into a racing dynasty — her father Ian trained racehorses, and she is related to the Balding broadcasting and training family — she read English at Newnham College, Cambridge, and began her broadcasting career at the BBC. Balding has presented coverage of the Olympics, Paralympics, horse racing (including the Grand National), Wimbledon, and Crufts, among many other events. She won BAFTA's Special Award in 2013 for her coverage of the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics. Her books include the memoir My Animals and Other Family, the walking guide Walking Home, and Pastures New, which continues her exploration of the British countryside and its connection to animals, nature, and belonging. She is also president of Rugby Football League. Her audiobooks — often narrated in her own distinctive, enthusiastic voice — and books offer listeners and readers engaging, joyful writing about sport, nature, animals, and the landscapes of Britain from one of the country's most trusted and well-liked broadcasters.