Galway Races announces Lisa McGowan as Guest Judge for Ladies Day 2025 

The Galway Races are delighted to announce that leading fashion influencer and entrepreneur Lisa McGowan, founder of the hugely successful Lisa & Co, Lisa & Co Cosmetics, and Lisa’s Lust List, will be the Guest Judge for the Ladies Day Best Dressed Competition 2025. This exciting event takes place on Thursday, 31st July, as part of the iconic Galway Races’ seven-day Summer Festival. 

Now in its 156th year, the Galway Races Summer Festival continues to blend the best of Irish racing, entertainment, and fashion. The Ladies Day Best Dressed Competition, sponsored this year by the multi-award-winning Irish skincare brand Ella & Jo, is always a show-stopping highlight of the week, where racing excellence meets high style, and fashion lovers from across the country turn out in force. 

Lisa McGowan is no stranger to Galway’s style scene, having won the prestigious Ladies Day Competition in 2016. Originally from Tullamore, since her win she has built one of Ireland’s most trusted and successful platforms, celebrated for her honest reviews, empowering style advice, and keen eye for quality and individuality. With her own thriving fashion and cosmetic brands, and over 200,000 loyal followers, Lisa is the perfect choice to take on this exciting role. 

“I’m absolutely thrilled to be invited back to the Galway Races as the Guest Judge for Ladies Day 2025” said Lisa. “This event holds a very special place in my heart, ever since I won Ladies Day myself in 2016. The style, the atmosphere, and the incredible talent in fashion make it one of the highlights of the Irish social calendar, and I can’t wait to celebrate all the amazing looks and creativity on the day.”  

Speaking on the announcement, Michael Moloney, CEO of the Galway Races, said: 

“Lisa is a hugely respected figure in Irish fashion and business, with a fantastic connection to people right across the country. She’s genuine, stylish, and brings great energy to everything she does. We’re delighted to have her on board as our Guest Judge for Ladies Day – she’s a brilliant fit for Galway, and I’ve no doubt she’ll add something really special to the day.” 

Lisa will be joining Ladies Day Head Judge Mandy Maher on the day. Mandy who enters her 4th year as Head Judge says: 

“I am so excited to be back for the 4th year running as head judge. With Galway being home for me, I find it so special to be a part of Galway’s most glamorous event and the largest racing festival in Ireland! I am also super excited for Ella & Jo’s first year as the new Ladies Day sponsors. It’s fantastic to have such a national and international brand on board. I cant wait to see everyone in Ballybrit.” 

With Ella & Jo as proud new sponsors of the Ladies Day Best Dressed Competition, co-founder Niamh Ryan is also delighted to be joining the judging panel this year. 

Niamh said: “It’s an honour to be a part of the judging panel for Ladies Day at the Galway Races. For me, it’s all about seeing personal style shine through – whether it’s a bold statement or a perfectly curated look that really reflects someone’s personality. I’ll be looking for confidence, creativity, and that special something that makes an outfit truly unforgettable.” 

This year’s Ladies Day promises to be one of the most glamorous and competitive yet, as racegoers embrace the opportunity to celebrate personal style, confidence, and creativity in the heart of Ballybrit. 

Ladies Day is not to be missed. Secure your tickets now at www.galwayraces.com or call us on (091)700100. 

See you in Ballybrit.