Speaking at the announcement, Kathryn Thomas said she was delighted to be selected as this year’s Horse Racing Ireland’s Fashion Ambassador “I am thrilled to be receiving such a prestigious accolade and hope to carry the mantle as well as my predecessor Caroline Morahan. I love fashion and I love a day out at the races so I am really looking forward to taking on the role and encouraging other young women to come and enjoy what is becoming one of the most popular sports in Ireland.”

“I really enjoy the glamour and excitement of a day’s racing and the buzz of meeting up with friends for a fun day out. Of course as far as I’m concerned, Ladies Day is the highlight of every meeting and Irish women especially, love getting glammed up and I am no exception. The atmosphere is always electric – wild horses couldn’t keep me away!”

Tamso Doyle of Horse Racing Ireland said Kathryn was an obvious choice to take over the role from last year’s fashion ambassador Caroline Morahan. “We are delighted to have Kathryn on board, her sense of fun and style encapsulates everything about summer season racing in Ireland. Kathryn has a good all round knowledge and interest in fashion, she is the perfect ambassador and we look forward to racing with her over the coming months. “

“This year’s Summer Racing Season is one to look forward to with some of the biggest races this year happening throughout the summer. Following on from the success of last week’s Punchestown Festival, which saw numbers up by 9,000 on last year, HRI can guarantee a summer packed with racing and fashion action both on and off the course.”

The stars of flat racing in Ireland will gather with familiar faces from the world of fashion at The Ice Bar in the Four Seasons Hotel tomorrow night to catch a sneak preview of the Summer Racing Programme and forthcoming Ladies Day events.

Ladies Day at the races has never been as popular and Horse Racing Ireland along with the Design Centre and up-and-coming milliners will present this season’s most fashionable racing wear. DJ Poppy Lloyd will be entertaining the guests.