We get the inside track on how The Star’s racing ambassador Abbey Gelmi pulls off the perfect autumn race day.
Perth-born Abbey Gelmi knows a thing or two about style, fashion and grace. The acclaimed Channel 7 television presenter and journalist, who now resides in Sydney, has established herself as one of Australia’s leading sports media figures. Abbey’s role as The Star Championships autumn racing ambassador will see her don her finest fascinator, be dressed by a renowned stylist and put her best foot forward for a day of fun and frivolity trackside at Royal Randwick.
The Sydney autumn racing carnival is one of the biggest events on the calendar year for racing aficionados, fashionistas and Sydney siders. This year’s Sydney Autumn Racing Carnival takes place over six weeks with The Star Doncaster Mile and Derby Day two of the hottest events not to miss. “I love that The Star Championships has something for everyone,” says Abbey when asked what she loves about the carnival. “There’s a real feeling of celebration in the air and it’s one of my favourite events of the year.”
To get you in the mood for autumn racing, we asked Abbey Gelmi to share her complete guide to The Star Championships. From getting ready to spending the day trackside, here’s how Abbey plans her perfect race day out.
Morning routines on race day
Hearty breakfast? Tick. Beauty regime for a little extra glow? Tick. These are key elements for Abbey when getting ready for race day. Abbey says she’ll always buy a Best Bets race book for racing tips to help her pick a winner, too.
Read more: Discover top tips for betting on a winner at the Autumn Racing Carnival
Rituals to kick off the day
“I have a bet on the first race, always,” tells Abbey. “And maybe a little Champagne too just to get the day off on the right track.”
Autumn race day looks
For Abbey, working with stylists and fashion designers is a common occurrence in her job and something she loves dearly, particularly when she is able to work with good friends like stylist Jess Pecoraro. “I’m working with Jess on my looks for The Star Championships,” tells Abbey. “Jess has dressed me for years and is now a dear friend. The planning starts weeks in advance and I’m very grateful to get to work with someone so talented.”
The best milliners
“I can’t go past Nerida Winter for a statement hat, and I also love Viktoria Novak’s crowns,” says Abbey.
Abbey Gelmi’s 5 tips for making the most out of race day
- Embrace all that race day has to offer.
- Get a group together, plan your outfit, have a look at the form and make sure you go and see the horses in the yard.
- Don’t forget to book dinner! Race day is so much more than what happens on track and having a dinner booked at somewhere like The Star means you’ll have the full experience. This year I’ll be dining after the races at Sokyo having the toothfish.
- Get ready for the races somewhere fun – and make a real event of it! My beautiful room at the Star Sydney is where I’ll be getting ready, and I can’t wait!
- Comfortable shoes are a must.
Book your dinner out after race day at one of our top Sydney restaurants.
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