COMPETING today at the one-day event in Maddybenny, Hillsborough, Olympian Clare Abbott faces a new challenge on Bank Holiday Monday as she is on the judging panel at Downpatrick.

Clare’s fellow celebrity assessors on this day of fashion, style and, of course, racing are Miss Northern Ireland, Emma Carswell, Mr Ireland, Darren King, and top Dublin hair stylist, Lukasz Rod.

Last week, this column concentrated on the magnificent prize on offer through Downe Travel for the meeting’s Most Appropriately Dressed Lady.

However, promoting equality - as horse sports are all about - the team at Downpatrick are not neglecting the male of the species and there is also a Best Dressed Gentleman competition.

While the winning lady is jetting off to New York, the winning gent will be flying in the opposite direction with the prize, sponsored by Giltspur Scientific, being a trip to the Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix including Etihad Airline flights and luxury hotel accommodation.

Courtesy of Magners, the winner of the ‘Ladies Updo Hairstyle’ will win a trip for two to London, including flights from Belfast and a two-night stay in a 4-star London hotel. In addition, the winning Hair Salon will receive a case of both Magners Forbidden Flavours - Strawberry & Lime and Cloudy Lemon. And, in case anyone was wondering, there are best turned-out prizes on offer for the all-important horses as well!