Top scorer Nina Carberry says Dancing with the Stars is 'mentally exhausting' but told how she has been taking inspiration from champion Lottie Ryan on her quest to win.
The legendary Irish jockey has been leading the way throughout the series, and even bagged the first perfect score of three 10s from the judges in last week’s show.
“I still haven’t come down from the buzz of getting the perfect score last weekend,” Nina admitted on Friday, just days before she is due to go and do it all again.
The 37-year-old Irish Grand National winner, who is paired with two time winning pro dancer Pasquale La Rocca, added, “I am just thrilled that it worked out,” saying she wasn’t sure if she would get the technical routine over the line on time.
“Things just clicked I suppose going into the weekend,” she said.
“I was the most relaxed I’ve been going into a dance. It was the dance I enjoyed the most and that probably came through a lot as well. I couldn’t believe it when the three judges were standing up. It’s a dream come true. I never even thought I’d get a ten, never mind three!”
But the Co. Meath born racing star admitted it isn’t all smooth sailing, and told how the competition is heating up behind the scenes as they get closer to the final hurdle.
“The competition has really hotted up since last weekend.
“As the weeks go on, it’s getting more intense and everyone is upping their game the whole time.
“It is mentally exhausting and non-stop really.
“When I signed up to the show, I didn't think I'd have to put as much into it but I'm glad I did. “It’s getting rewarded every Sunday that makes it and obviously getting three 10s made it all worthwhile.”
However, speaking exclusively to Ladbrokes, the betting ambassador went on: “It’s just going to be hard to impress the judges every week. It’s not possible to get tens every single week because, you know yourself, there’s dances that will suit you and dances that won’t.
“I’ll give it as much as I can every week and see what we get.”
And the sportswoman said she is also feeling inspired by reigning champion Lottie Ryan, who was also paired with Pasquale in the competition.
“I thought she was amazing. She improved so much over the competition and it was a joy to watch.”
