Fierce competition among top equine athletes is set to make Fashion Friday an exciting event on January 23. This spectacle promises not only thrilling races but also a global millinery exhibition and a vibrant after-party that will enhance the day’s festivities.
Ahead of the big day, several horses and their trainers participated in training sessions on Thursday morning. The highlighted racing events will feature an impressive nine-race card, including three Group 1 contests. The centerpiece will be the Group 1 Al Maktoum Challenge, which serves as a preparation for the Dubai World Cup scheduled for March 28. David O’Farrell, Assistant Manager of International Relations at Dubai Racing Club, anticipates a tightly contested finish.
Defending champion Walk Of Stars is expected to return, competing against Imperial Emperor, trained by Bupat Seemar, and Heart of Honour, who was last year’s UAE Derby runner-up. Jamie Osborne, Heart of Honour’s trainer representing the UK, expects a strong competition. Upgraded stakes and robust entrants suggest that this year’s races are going to be particularly intense.
Seemar’s Zabeel Stables has a noteworthy reputation, especially after training Laurel River for victory in last year’s Dubai World Cup, reinforcing his team’s competitive edge this season. Jamie Osborne noted the increasing significance of the Dubai World Cup in his racing calendar over recent years. He feels optimistic about the caliber of horses at this year’s carnival, making the races even more competitive and challenging.
Moreover, the event is not limited to dirt track races; the turf program will also showcase elite international runners. Notably, the Group 1 Jebel Hatta will attract top talent, while speed enthusiasts will look forward to the Group 2 Blue Point Sprint and the Group 3 Al Shindagha Sprint.
In addition to the racing, attention will turn to the fashion and millinery exhibition featuring prominent designers. The curated exhibition in Concourse 3 will highlight eye-catching headpieces from designers such as Bee Smith, Victoria Charles, and Kim Fletcher, among others. British milliner Victoria Grant will also present new pieces from her collection, “Couture Millinery for the Wild at Heart.”
Emerging trends in millinery include smaller hats, described as ‘airhostess hats’ by Lisa Tan. She noted this trend gained popularity at the Melbourne Cup and remarked on the practicality of these smaller designs at social events. With over 15 years of experience, Tan expressed enthusiasm about showcasing her creations in Dubai, utilizing a signature technique that results in unique petal shapes.
Fashion Friday promises to be a memorable occasion with a blend of thrilling equestrian competition and stylish expressions, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.