THE GALWAY races is one of the most popular sporting events of the year – but the occasion is just as well known for glamour.
This Ladies’ Day of the summer festival punters have out done themselves and are ready to enjoy the sunshine and races in style
Racegoers have dressed to the nines in stylish outfits, elegant hats and striking suits.
And many posed for pictures, proudly modelling their extravagant looks, before the races began at the Ballybrit racecourse.
This year the prize for the Best Dressed Lady Competition is a whopping €13,000.
Judges will be on the prowl all day, searching the crowd for the most deserving winner.
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Several racegoers wore creative headpieces and hats made from unusual materials.
While others opted for a classic, more refined look.
Carlha Callinan, from Galway wore a stunning red mesh and gold woven material headpiece that circled around her face.
While Danielle Gingell, from Claremorris, Mayo wore a massive headpiece with gold leaf detailing and black sheer wings.
Miss Ireland Pamela Uba, who is from Galway, turned up to the event and stunned in a gorgeous black, red, yellow and white patterned gown and matching feathered headpiece.
Head Judge of the Best Dressed Lady competition, Mandy Maher, wore a black and white trouser and shawl co-ord with a matching belt and black fascinator.
Amber O Connor, Kinvara, Galway wore a dainty babydoll dressed in an orange and pink floral pattern. The punter chose a matching pink fascinator with large sequins, flower detailing and feathers.
While Carita Conway, from Castleconnell, Limerick posed in a bright pink and gold, one shouldered jumpsuit, with huge gold metal headpiece.
Each eye-catching frock was paired with high heels or stilettos to further elevate the glamour.
More than 130,000 fans are expected to have flocked to the Ballybrit race course.
Last year the number of punters allowed to attend the popular event was capped at 1,000 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
And with affairs back in full swing, bookies Ladbrokes predict a €40milion betting splurge across the industry.
Earlier this week, Ladies Day judge Kieran O’Malley said he was already blown away by this year’s fashion.
He said: “There’s a lovely atmosphere out here, the style was unbelievable, town was really good last night, there was a nice buzz, so Galway is back.”
