Grand National revellers impress in eye-catching dresses at Aintree’s Ladies Day as the sun shines and bubbly flow
EYE-catching dresses and unmissable hats, Aintree’s Ladies Day is back and revellers have pulled out all the stops with their fashion looks.
The second day of the Grand National Festival has kicked off in style at the Merseyside racecourse, with stylish guests ready for a thrilling day of racing.
Making the most of the sunny weather, glamorous women have been sipping champagne in their finery.
Figure-hugging dresses and sky-high stilettos appear all the rage for many attendees.
Around 150,000 people are expected at the racing extravaganza over the three-day festival, with the world-famous Grand National taking place tomorrow.
Typically Cheltenham guests favour tweed-themed outfits for the races, Aintree ticketholders often go bold, with the dress code encouraging people to “feel your best.”
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Unlike Royal Ascot, the rules are less strict.
You can even wear fancy dress if you wish, as long as it isn’t deemed to be offensive.
The website states: “At Aintree Racecourse we believe racing should be enjoyed by anyone and everyone.
“And one thing is certainly true, the more relaxed and comfortable we feel, the more likely we are to have a great time.
“So that’s why we’ve created one very simple piece of guidance, to come ‘dressed to feel your best.
“We’re all unique, and no more so than in our sense of style and comfort.
“For some, wearing a nice sweatshirt, pair of jeans and clean trainers is what makes them feel confident and at-ease.
“For others, they might prefer to turn heads with a sharp suit or glamorous dress and high heels, particularly for one of our big race meetings.
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“But whatever your tastes, the most important thing when choosing your outfit is, of course, comfort and confidence.
“So wear what feels right for you and will keep you feeling your best from start to finish, whatever the weather.”
The Grand National kicks off at 4pm on Saturday afternoon and is arguably the biggest horse race in the world.
It spans approximately 4 miles and 2½ furlongs, featuring 30 challenging fences over two laps.
Facts about the Grand National
EVERY year the Grand National sees millions of racing fans tune in to soak up the action.
- The first Grand National took place in 1839, with a horse named Lottery winning the race.
- Obstacles like Becher's Brook, The Chair, and the Canal Turn are renowned for their difficulty and have become iconic in the racing world.
- Red Rum is celebrated for winning the Grand National three times (1973, 1974, 1977) and finishing second twice (1975, 1976).
- In 1977, Charlotte Brew became the first woman to ride in the Grand National, breaking gender barriers in the sport.
- Rachael Blackmore made history in 2021 as the first female jockey to win the Grand National, riding Minella Times to victory.
- An estimated 500 to 600million viewers watch the race worldwide.
- The race covers about 4 miles and 2½ furlongs, with horses jumping 30 fences over two laps.
There is a substantial prize fund of £1million up for grabs, with £500,000 awarded to the winner.
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The event, which traditionally features 40 horses, has been running since 1839 and around a third of the UK is expected to put at least one bet on this year's race.
Notably, the 2024 champion, I Am Maximus, trained by Willie Mullins, is set to defend his title at this year’s event.
