Barry Geraghty, an Irish horseracing legend. From his first win in 1997 to when he retired in July 2020, he rode almost 2,000 winners, making him the fourth most accomplished rider of all time. With more wins at Cheltenham than any other jockey, he has worked with all the greats – Moscow Flyer, Kicking King, Monty’s Pass.
But Barry is covered in scars. He has broken all his limbs, his shoulders, his ribs and his nose. He has survived falls too numerous to recall and spent most of 2019 with a metal cast on his leg. And yet, he kept getting back on the horse.
This book is about resilience; the mental power that enables the great to keep going despite the pain, despite the odds. Containing startling revelations and a searingly honest insight into the life of a top jockey, this is a must-read for all sporting fans.
Praise for True Colours:
‘A superior story … an honest and self-searching account of the glories and thrills, but also the doubt and barren spells that visit even rampantly successful jockeys.’ Keith Duggan, The Irish Times
‘A really super read. What it’s managed to do is put people there, on the horse’s back, in so many of those races.’ Philip Boucher Hayes, RTÉ Radio 1
‘This compelling read touches on themes of irony and chance. As the anecdotes roll off Geraghty's tongue, it feels like you are right there with him for Moscow Flyer's generation-defining victories, Monty’s Pass's Grand National glory (with insight into the parties too!), and the breath-taking feeling of partnering the one and only Sprinter Sacre.’ The Racing Post
Barry Geraghty retired in July 2020 as Ireland’s foremost champion jockey. In 2009 he became the first jockey to win the big four races at Cheltenham and the English Grand National. In 2020 he won five races at Cheltenham, including the Champion Hurdle. He lives in Skryne, Co. Meath with his wife Paula and their three children.
Niall Kelly is a journalist and Deputy Editor of The42.ie. He previously worked with Philly McMahon on The Choice and with Andy Lee on Fighter.
