Yellow was undoubtedly the colour of the moment as Racing for Rosabel returned to The Connacht Hotel, Galway, on Monday for an unforgettable afternoon of fashion, entertainment and fundraising in support of Rosabel’s Rooms.
Judges Laura Nolan, Fiona Morgan Coleman and Caroline McElroy had the difficult task of selecting the winners, with style at an all-time high throughout the room.
Limerick woman Mary Wolfe was crowned Best Dressed Lady, wearing a stunning yellow Karen Millen dress complemented by an elegant headpiece by Carol Kennelly. Mary graciously accepted the title as Limerick once again pipped Galway to the post.
Galway’s Nicola McGlinchey came a very close second in a beautifully fitted white dress and statement boat headpiece from CompleteLook.ie, styled with ASOS shoes and a River Island bag adorned with silver roses—a particularly fitting detail for the occasion.
Best Headpiece went to Mary Davin for her gorgeous boater, which she personalised by adding dramatic netting across her eyes. Michelle Manning was named runner-up, bringing another beautiful splash of yellow to the competition with a colourful floral headpiece.
Ivan Sutton from Dublin took the Best Dressed Man title in an elegant blue jacket and floral shirt that immediately caught the judges’ attention. Sean Brett was runner-up, proving that great style does not need to come with a designer price tag. His jacket was from Penneys, his trousers from Dunnes Stores, and his striking snakeskin shoes stole the show.
The Best Dressed Lady competition was sponsored by Canella Lane, Dr Laura Clinic and Jenny Glow. Best Headpiece was supported by Edel Ramberg, Bellissimo Galway and Anú Wellness Hub, while Hartmanns Jewellers, Louis Copeland and Monroe’s Live sponsored the Best Dressed Man competition.
One of the most moving moments came when Rosabel’s mother, Suzanne McClean, selected two recipients for the special Rosabel’s Choice award.
Aisling Kleyn wore a vintage wedding dress featuring a fitted bodice and flowing skirt, paired with a beautiful vintage headpiece. Joined on stage by her daughter, Aisling touched everyone as she shared her own experience of child loss, explaining that her little girl had a twin sister who sadly did not survive.
Suzanne’s second choice was Orla Kelly, who wore a gorgeous purple two-piece and a headpiece by Caithriona King. Orla, who is recovering from breast cancer, became emotional as she accepted her award, creating another deeply heartfelt moment.
Caroline Downey, organiser of Racing for Rosabel, said:
“This is the highlight of my week. I am so honoured to organise this special day with Rosabel’s parents, Suzanne and Gary. The energy in the room was infectious, everyone was in such high spirits, and it was wonderful to see our guests having such an incredible day.”
The Connacht Hotel once again provided the perfect backdrop for this much-loved event, setting a wonderful tone for the opening of Galway Race Week. Racing for Rosabel 2026 was an incredible day for an incredible cause, raising vital funds and awareness for the invaluable work of Rosabel’s Rooms.
For more information on Rosabel’s Room a charity that supports families after losing a child with financial and therapeutic support go to Irish Hospice Foundation.
