YOU can always count on Listowel Races to come up with an original bit of marketing for their Harvest Festival, which kicks off tomorrow [Sunday].

They might not have bagged Frankie Dettori, but the Listowel committee have still managed to sprinkle some stardust on the meeting by producing a promotional video in the style of a Hollywood blockbuster.

The video features a number of characters who are expected to ‘star’ at the meeting, notably Eric McNamara (“The Strategist”), amateur rider Laura Costello, bookmaker Berky Browne and, of course, photographer Pat Healy.

Listowel’s ability to attract plenty of female racegoers is also highlighted and there are four fashion events taking place during the seven-day meeting.

On Sunday, Listowel hosts a new ‘Most Fun & Fashionable Family’ competition, sponsored by the Dingle Skellig Hotel. Judging this event is model, businesswoman and mum of four, Elvira Fernandez Zebo.

Competition

The Ryle Menswear Best Dressed Man competition, hosted by Michael Moran and judged by the ever-dapper Botty O’Callaghan, is on Thursday.

Friday is the big one - the McElligotts Kia Best Dressed Lady competition, judged by broadcaster Louise Duffy with designer Shauna Courtney.

This year’s top prize is a trip for two to New York with accommodation at the Fitzpatrick Hotel in Manhattan.

There’s also €1,000 for the most creative headpiece and €500 for the most contemporary outfit. Each of the 10 finalists will also receive gift bags, kindly sponsored by McGuires Pharmacy Listowel.

Sustainability

Finally, next Saturday, the theme is ‘Sustainable Style’, organised by Listowel Tidy Towns in association with An Taisce and Listowel Races.

Now celebrating its 14th year, this is a Listowel Tidy Towns initiative to highlight waste minimisation and promote the circular economy.

This competition will be judged by model Sydney Sargent and Katie Sloane, owner of Peach Vintage Clothing, and a judge from An Taisce.

Speaking of style, former Love Island contestant Frankie Foster will be broadcasting from the races on both Tuesday and Wednesday.