The glamour and excitement of Ladies Day at the Galway Races reached a pinnacle when Davinia Knight, the Best Dressed winner, was awarded a bespoke piece of Rachel Webb art to commemorate her victory. The Portarlington native not only walked away from Ballybrit with a €10,000 cheque but also with a unique creation entitled “Heart of Gold.” This exquisite piece, featuring fifteen hearts with one golden heart symbolizing the overall winner, celebrates the fifteen Ladies Day finalists.
The Connacht Hospitality Group, in their third year of sponsoring Ladies Day, aimed to mark the occasion with a special piece from one of Galway’s most talented local artists. Eveanna Ryan, Group Sales and Marketing Manager, expressed their excitement: “We are delighted to be working with Rachel. We are admirers of her work and have wanted to collaborate with her on a project for some time.”
Davinia Knight was overwhelmed with the artwork, expressing her joy and gratitude. “I will cherish this piece forever,” she remarked. The piece was presented in Hyde Bar by the Galway Races Head Judge Mandy Maher and Kieran O Malley of the Connacht Hospitality Group.
Artist Rachel Webb, who meticulously crafted the piece, shared her pride and enthusiasm.
“My heart is bursting with pride, seeing my piece awarded for such a stylish day. Each heart is crafted and decorated by hand, with one receiving extra special treatment through an application of 24 karat gold lustre before being fired in the kiln for the third time. “The hearts are assembled into a floating balloon design on polished porcelain, with hand-drawn ribbons and a translucent glaze applied using various brushing techniques. The piece comes to life as it catches and reflects light during the day.”
The Ladies Day event was blessed with sunshine and showcased sensational style, making the fashion stakes as impressive as ever this year.
