Former jockey Nina Carberry to seek Fine Gael European nomination

Former jockey and Dancing With the Stars winner, Nina Carberry is seeking to join Mayo MEP Maria Walsh on the Fine Gael ticket to run in the European Elections.

The Meath native has put her name forward for nomination to run for Fine Gael in the Midlands-North West constituency where five seats are up for grabs in the European Elections in June.

Last week, the political rumour mill went into overdrive when the Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar revealed a former winner of RTÉ’s Dancing With The Stars television show could move into politics and yesterday, retired National Hunt jockey Nina Carberry confirmed that she will be seeking a party nomination.

In a message to members on Monday, she wrote: “My name is Nina Carberry. I am a champion jockey, a businesswoman, a sports coach, an author, and even a participant on Dancing With The Stars and Ireland's Fittest Family.

“In the Ireland and Europe of today, it is more important than ever for those who believe they can make a difference to put their hand up to make things happen. As a mother of two, that is why I want to contest the European Elections for Fine Gael this June to ensure a bright future for all.

“Honesty, hard work, and plain talking define my approach. Growing up in a family of Fine Gael supporters, lively debates and radio discussions were part of our daily lives.

“Fine Gael’s core value of equality of opportunity resonates deeply with me. As a candidate, I embody this principle.

“The Midlands Northwest constituency is vast and diverse, spanning rural, urban, and commuter belt areas. Having spent two decades travelling the country, meeting people through racing and community events, I have seen first-hand the challenges faced by these communities.

“I would consider it a huge privilege to run for election for Fine Gael and have the chance to represent the people of Midlands Northwest. I have proven myself in sport and business and look forward to bringing my drive and determination to this new opportunity.

“I humbly ask for your support in the upcoming Midlands Northwest Selection Convention. I will be in contact with as many members and public representatives over the next week, but feel free to message or email me if you wish,” she said.

Shrule native Maria Walsh is currently one of two current Fine Gael MEPS in the Midlands-North West constituency with Louth-based Colm Markey the other party MEP. Independent Luke 'Ming' Flanagan and Sinn Féin's Chris McManus are the other two sitting MEPs.

The inclusion of 39-year-old Carberry in the election race will add to the profile of the contest as she comes from one of the most well-known racing families in Ireland. She is the daughter of former champion jockey Tommy Carberry while her brothers, Paul and Philip were also successful jockey's with Paul winning the English Grand National in 1999.

She is also married to Ted Walsh Junior, son of famous racing pundit and trainer, Ted Walsh and is the sister-in-law of former champion jockey, Ruby Walsh and female jockey, Katie Walsh.

The constituency was allocated a fifth seat following the redrawing of the boundary and comprises of the counties of Cavan, Donegal, Galway, Kildare, Leitrim, Longford, Louth, Mayo, Meath, Monaghan, Roscommon, Sligo, Laois, Offaly and Westmeath.

Fianna Fáil are running three candidates with Mayo-based Senator Lisa Chambers joining Brian Cowen TD and Senator Niall Blaney on the ticket while former MP, Michelle Gildernew from Co Tyrone will join Chris McManus on the Sinn Féin ticket.