Clare Balding

Ian Balding has been remembered by his daughter Clare as "fearless, funny and charming" as those around the world of racing paid tribute to the former champion trainer, whose death, at the age of 87, was announced by his family on Friday. On her Instagram account, the BBC broadcaster said, "My Dad was one of a kind. Fearless, funny and charming, he was an all-round sportsman, a great trainer and a beautiful horseman. He loved his dogs, his horses, and his family - probably in that order.  "He shared with...

Ian Balding, who has died at the age of 87, made an indelible impression on the turf, not only as the trainer of some wonderful horses including Mill Reef, but also as mentor to many young people who subsequently graduated to success in the sport. Most notable is his son Andrew, who succeeded him at the helm of Kingsclere in 2002 and who has subsequently ensured that Kingsclere remains synonymous with both success and class. Ian Balding and his elder brother Toby were born in the USA where their father...

My Animals and Other Family By Clare Balding Once I have found a book that captures my attention I become a compulsive reader who will only put the book down to eat a meal or sleep, until it ends. One such book was My Animals and Other Family. My family had initially taken it in turns to read the book while I waited impatiently for my opportunity to steal the book and leaf through its pages. I had watched Clare Balding present racing on the BBC many times and she...