OUR HONEST CHARLIE WOOD

by Josephine Carr

The True Story of Charles Wood: From Runaway to Champion Jockey

Discover the incredible journey of Charles Wood. This gripping account takes you through the harrowing experiences of a young boy who escaped the confines of poverty in the slums of Hull, only to find himself on a rollercoaster ride of triumph and despair.

Charles Wood's story is not just one of victory but of resilience. As a runaway, he faced insurmountable odds, but his passion for racing propelled him into the spotlight. Experience the exhilaration of his rise to become a Champion Jockey, acclaimed for his extraordinary talent and determination. Yet, this remarkable achievement came at a cost, leading him down a path that nearly shattered his very being.

Through vivid storytelling and rich detail, this book explores the complexities of Wood's life, revealing the inner struggles that accompanied his success. Experience the challenges that threaten to undermine his dreams, the relationships that shaped him, and the relentless drive that defines his legacy.

Join us on a journey that celebrates not only the highs of sporting glory but also the deeper truths about ambition, vulnerability, and redemption. Charles Wood’s story is an inspiring testament to the human spirit—a must-read for anyone who believes in the power of perseverance.

Immerse yourself in this poignant narrative that highlights the dualities of success and sacrifice. Get your copy today and witness the extraordinary life of Charles Wood, a true champion who overcame the odds, only to face the profound question: at what cost?

JEREMY IRONS

“If, like me, you enjoy a beautifully written tale about a person in history you knew nothing about, then this is for you. Especially if you enjoy horses and horse racing. A real page turner.”

The true story of Charles Wood. A runaway from the slums of Hull who rose to become Champion Jockey. A triumph that nearly destroyed him.

JOHN BERRY
Newmarket

“What do we know of Charles Wood? Won all the Classics? Champion Jockey 1887? Rider of St Simon? That’s only fraction of story. His biography, superbly researched & written by [Josephine Carr] tells the fascinating tale brilliantly. Xmas coming - a great book to read, give or receive.”

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I enjoyed every page. It’s a great book.
— SIR MARK PRESCOTT
[Charles Wood’s] story is told beautifully by the author, who has that priceless gift of being able to effortlessly paint pictures with words, making this delightful book a gripping read for both the racing enthusiast and anyone who loves a good old fashioned story... Brilliant
— — STEVE BRADLEY, HORSE RACING IN THE MEDIA
Amazon ***** A great read! I could not put this down, finishing it in less than a day. You do not have to enjoy racing to be enthralled by the story of Charles Wood.
— — Karen AT

In the tumultuous and often unforgiving world of Victorian horse racing, Charles Wood emerges as an unlikely hero against the backdrop of societal norms and expectations.

With the aristocracy wielding absolute power and influence over the sport, he boldly dared to carve out his own destiny, thereby revolutionising the ways horses were trained and ridden by innovating techniques that challenged the status quo.

However, such ambition inevitably drew the ire of the prestigious Jockey Club, which sought to eliminate him from the racing records and systematically ruin his reputation through a scandalous campaign.

After enduring nine long years of exile, Wood is now poised for a monumental and highly anticipated comeback. With his name in jeopardy and his legacy hanging in the balance, he enters the grandest race in all of England, where a hard-won victory would not only restore his honor but also redefine the very fabric of racing.

This thrilling tale of resilience, courage, and unwavering determination poses a compelling question: Did the Jockey Club drastically underestimate the unyielding spirit of a true champion?

In a high-stakes battle against his tumultuous past and the powerful adversaries who stand in his way, everything hinges on one fateful race that could alter the course of his life forever.