Clare Balding was actively involved in equestrian sports. Throughout her childhood and teenage years, she participated in eventing, show jumping, and dressage. From 1988 to 1993, she was a leading amateur flat jockey and won Champion Lady Rider in 1990. After her competitive riding career, she transitioned into a broadcasting career, predominantly becoming the BBC's lead horse racing presenter from 1997 onwards. Beyond horse racing, she has presented a wide array of sports including Wimbledon tennis, rugby league, golf, and major sporting events like the Olympics and Paralympics. However, her personal sporting background is rooted mainly in equestrian disciplines and amateur flat racing.