Wind and rain failed to deter glamourous racegoers turning out for Ladies day at the Ebor Festival.

The biggest race meet of the calendar returned to a drizzly Knavesmire for Ladies Day on Thursday, with racegoers dressed to the nines and shivering under their umbrellas as they braved the bad weather for a day of fun at the races.


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Fortunately, for those all dressed up and ready for the Pertemps Network Yorkshire Oaks Day, otherwise known as Ladies Day, Storm Lilian didn't hit York until today (Friday, August 23) and the weather on Thursday began to brighten up just before the gates opened with crowds pouring in from far and wide.

Racegoers shelter from the rain ahead of day two of the Sky Bet Ebor Festival at York RacecourseRacegoers shelter from the rain ahead of day two of the Sky Bet Ebor Festival at York Racecourse (Image: Mike Egerton)

Ladies Day proved to be a celebration of all things female – both in the stands and on the track itself – with four races taking place on the track, all of which were exclusively run by female thoroughbreds for nearly £1 million of prize money.

Celandine dug deep with 13/2 odds to secure a front-running victory in the Sky Bet Lowther Stakes, the first race of the day, with other races, such as Diligently storming ahead in the Harry’s Half Million with 22/1 odds, bringing about surprise winners.

A racegoer ahead of day two of the Sky Bet Ebor Festival at York Racecourse.A racegoer ahead of day two of the Sky Bet Ebor Festival at York Racecourse. (Image: Mike Egerton)

Speaking on Thursday, James Brennan, head of marketing and sponsorship for York Racecourse, said: “The sun came out just after gates opened, we hope to herald a lovely afternoon.

“The Grantley Hall Ebor Fashion lawn is the busiest place on the Knavesmire before the first race, as style and fun come together.”

Tickets are still available for the remaining cups of the season and can be purchased through the Races website.