Carlow woman takes best dressed title at Ballinrobe Ladies Day

A Bagenalstown mother's return to Ballinrobe Racecourse after four decades proved to be a winning one, as Liz Maher claimed the coveted Best Dressed Lady title at The Lodge at Ashford Castle Ladies Day on Monday evening.

Ms Maher, a retired cattle trader, hadn’t set foot on the Co Mayo racecourse since the 1980s, but impressed judge Caoimhe McGinley with her striking lime green ensemble that perfectly balanced vintage charm with contemporary elegance.

The victory adds to an impressive track record for the Carlow fashion enthusiast, who was crowned Best Dressed at the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby at the Curragh Racecourse in 2024, taking home a trip to Dubai and €500 spending money on that occasion.

The winning look at Ballinrobe featured a Julie Caulfield coat as the centrepiece, complemented by a Cathriona King headpiece. But it was the sentimental touches that caught the judge’s eye – particularly Maher’s vintage shoes, purchased over 20 years ago from Quills in Killarney, paired with a handbag from Kildare Village and rose-tinted sunglasses.

“I’m absolutely delighted to have won Best Dressed at Ballinrobe this evening,” said Ms Maher. “It’s such a special event, and there was so much incredible style on show – I feel honoured to be chosen. I was last here 40 years ago and to win best dressed on my return was truly special.” Her latest victory earned her a luxurious getaway to The Lodge at Ashford Castle and €1,000 in prize money.

Judge McGinley, making her debut at both Ballinrobe and as a Ladies Day judge, praised the overall standard of fashion on display. “The standard of style was incredibly high, which made narrowing it down to just five finalists a real challenge,” she said. “Liz’s outfit stood out for me with a look that was both timeless and elegant. Her personality really shone through in the details – especially the colour of the outfit and how her shoes were over 20 years old.”