Attendees embraced the Irish spirit with green attire and festive celebrations, as the annual horse racing event unfolds in Gloucestershire.
Spectators flocked to the Cheltenham Festival in Gloucestershire on Thursday, dressed in an array of green attire for St Patrick’s Thursday, a highlight of the annual horse racing event. Though the actual St. Patrick’s Day falls on March 17, the festival pays tribute to the Irish patron saint with a dedicated day of festivities.
Attendees showcased their creativity, donning outfits that ranged from elegant green dresses and tailored suits to whimsical Irish-themed apparel complete with shamrocks and emerald accessories. As the event is renowned for its blend of fashion and sport, racegoers made concerted efforts to incorporate the day’s theme into their ensembles. One attendee was noted for a striking pant suit, while another fully embraced the spirit of the day with an eye-catching suit adorned with leaves.
The atmosphere was buoyant as attendees prepared to enjoy the festivities, which include seven more thrilling races. The event anticipates a crowd of about 65,000 people at the Cheltenham racecourse, with millions more expected to tune in via television. Key races on the agenda included the Stayers’ Hurdle featuring Teahupoo, the Kim Muir Handicap Chase with JonnyWho, and the Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle showcasing Sixandahalf.
Amid the excitement, attendees voiced their discontent over a recent increase in beer prices, with a pint of Guinness now costing £7.80 after a 30p hike, while premium lagers were priced at £7.40. Despite the price adjustments, racegoers appeared undeterred and enjoyed the ambiance, underscored by a steady flow of drinks.
The festival also showcases a fusion of haute couture and casual wear, with attendees making a bold fashion statement. Wednesday’s events had originally featured ‘Style Wednesday’, formerly known as Ladies’ Day, to promote sustainable fashion choices in the racing community. This shift to a gender-neutral name began two years ago, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices in fashion. The Cheltenham Festival stated their objective was to encourage attendees to share the narratives behind their personal style.
The festival’s ‘Slow Fashion Style Awards’ has replaced the previous ‘Best Dressed Competition’, allowing both men and women to compete based on their unique fashion choices. This initiative aims to highlight the importance of sustainable fashion while celebrating the joy of personal expression.
Among the attendees were members of the royal family, including Zara Tindall and Princess Eugenie, who mingled with other spectators, further elevating the star-studded atmosphere at one of the UK’s premier racing events. The Cheltenham Festival remains a significant occasion for both horse racing enthusiasts and fashion aficionados alike, combining the thrill of competition with the art of style.
Source: Noah Wire Services
