Carlow's fashion queen stuns judges to be amongst the finalists at Ladies Day Best Dressed

Carlow's very own style star Faith Amond turned heads at the weekend as she was named among the finalists in the Madrí Excepcional Best Dressed Lady competition at Down Royal Racecourse.

Fashion and racing fans flocked to the County Down venue on Saturday for the highly anticipated Ladies Day, one of the standout fixtures of the 2025 BetVictor Festival of Racing.

Faith, well-known in Carlow fashion circles for her timeless style, made the top ten shortlist thanks to her sophisticated black and gold ensemble in a look that impressed the judges for its elegance and flair.

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The competition was fierce this year, with the newly expanded Best Dressed categories attracting hundreds of entrants. The judging panel, which included fashion stylist Rebecca McKinney and solicitor Jane McDermott, spent the afternoon searching for show-stopping race-day looks in the brand-new Madrí Excepcional Marquee.

Karen Walsh from Banbridge was ultimately crowned Madrí Excepcional Best Dressed Lady for her chic navy dress from Self-Portrait, winning a luxury trip to Madrid that includes flights, a five-star hotel stay, and a city pass.

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The Freddie Hatchet Best Dressed Man title went to Raymond Gilbourne from Cork, while Glenda and Keith Willett from Belfast took home the Best Dressed Couple prize, sponsored by Lough Erne Resort.

Chloe Ferris, Commercial Director at Down Royal, said the event "continues to be a highlight of the racing calendar," adding that this year's new sponsors "significantly elevated the prizes and overall experience for those attending."

Faith's stylish showing once again puts Carlow on the fashion map and proves that when it comes to race-day glamour, this local lady is never far from the winner's enclosure.