Fashion Winner Wows in Classic Couture at Derby Day

Fashion Winner Wows in Classic Couture at Ellerslie BMW Derby Day

Auckland, Saturday 5 March 2016: Taking advantage of the lingering summer, thousands flocked to Ellerslie today to enjoy nail-biting thoroughbred racing and stunning fashion at the glamour day of Auckland Cup Week, the BMW Derby Day.

Race goers embraced traditional Derby Day black and white attire, with sophisticated 1950s looks and floor-length outfits the order of the day. The BMW Fashions in the Field winner was Stacey Hanley, 36, a hairdresser from Pukekohe, who impressed the judges in a classic full skirt, with pleating, hip pockets and a crop tank overlay.

Stacey walked away with prizes valued more than $30,000 and the opportunity to represent Ellerslie Racecourse in the National Fashions in the Field finals, the Viva Prix de Fashion at Auckland Cup Day next weekend.

More than 80 contestants put their best foot forward in the fashion competitions, making tough work for judges Amber Pebbles, Tracey Dalton and Robert Niwa. “1950s silhouettes with full skirts and gloves dominated the competition, along with styles we’ve not seen before. It’s great to see people are becoming more adventurous,” said head judge Tracey Dalton.

The new addition of the Mumm Racing Village was a sell out, with punters enjoying premium champagne and all day entertainment by The Levites and DJ Karn Hall.

Guests in the Swisse Glass House, beautifully themed with more than 200 natural succulents and plants, were treated with a special menu designed by leading chefs Ben Bayly and George Colombaris, as well as a visit from All Black Keiran Read and entertainment by hit Kiwi band Avalanche City.

Culinary delights and stellar entertainment was also abundant in the BMW marquee, with Jeff Wilson interviewing top jockey Jimmy Cassidy, and celebrity chef Josh Emett preparing a stunning lunch for guests.

Auckland Racing Club CEO Cameron George says the decision to change Auckland Cup Week to two Saturdays of racing has been vindicated. “I’m passionate about making Auckland Cup Week the biggest social event in New Zealand, and if Derby Day with packed sold out areas is anything to go by we look forward to a successful Auckland Cup Day next Saturday.”

The pinnacle race of the day, the BMW NZ Derby was a neck and neck finish taken out by Rangipo with What’s The Story coming a close second. Rangipo’s triumph was a first NZ Derby win for trainer Tony Pike but a sixth successful NZ Derby win for jockey Vinnie Colgan.

ENDS

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