Midlands National and Ladies Day

Kilbeggan Racecourse is calling on the ladies of the Midlands to get their hats on and race cards ready for the Kilbeggan Races. Xposé regular & Sunday Independent Beauty Editor Triona McCarthy and top Irish designer Rachel Mackey will be on hand to judge the Best Dressed Lady competition and will have his binoculars polished to scout out the most eye-catching outfits. The winner of this year"s Best Dressed Lady Competition will win a prize worth €2,000 including a weekend worth €500 at one of Ireland"s most luxurious retreats Temple Spa, where you can indulge in the breathtaking surroundings while being pampered. The prize also includes a makeover by the highly talented hair and make-up team at Profile Hair Design. Finally to top off this fantastic prize, there is a gift voucher for KHAN boutique (worth €1000) in Mullingar & Blackrock, where the friendly staff will cater to your every need. All 15 fashion finalists picked from the glamorous crowd by Triona McCarthy and Rachel Mackey will enjoy a drinks reception hosted by Jacob"s Creek. Finalists will also receive a bottle of Jacob"s Creek Sparkling Rosé. Triona McCarthy is no stranger to racing and is really looking forward to being a judge on the day. 'It"s such a great day out. I think the ladies" days are a fabulous idea and a great excuse for women to get out their hat and their best frock as the prizes are always amazing and you could get lucky. My advice is to choose an outfit that complements your figure and colouring and then to find a hat and shoes to match. I"m hoping to see fake tan, frocks and fascinators out in force at Kilbeggan. All the single ladies should definitely come along too as it"s a great place to meet men! You never know-you could win a prize or meet your new love!' said Triona. Paddy Dunican, Secretary of Kilbeggan Racecourse, is delighted that Triona McCarthy and Rachel Mackey are on board to judge the ladies day and is looking forward to large crowds on their biggest day of Kilbeggan"s racing calendar. 'Khan is a stunning boutique in Mullingar and is a great fit for our ladies day on Midlands National day, I am delighted that Triona McCarthy and Rachel Mackey are judging the best dressed competition and I"m sure they"ll cut a dash themselves on the day. I hope that good weather will prevail and we"re looking forward to a great day"s National Hunt racing which is now the social event of the year in the Midlands,' said Paddy. Last year"s best dressed lady winner was Margaret Connelly from Multyfarnham Co. Westmeath, and the judge was Karen Koster, HRI"s 2008 Fashion Ambassador. The first race at Kilbeggan on Friday, July 17, is off at 6pm, and the highlight of the fixture is the Gigginstown House Midlands National of €50,000. Admission for adults is €15, senior citizens and students €10 and free entry for children under 16 (discount for groups).