LOCAL NEWS
49
JULY 2023
HATS&HORSES
By Emma Iverson
There was a great turn out for the HATS&HORSES Day at the Maó Hippodrome. A day of fashion and socialising, combined with our famous Menorcan Horse Trotting Races. The organiser, Ariadne Villalta, took her inspiration for this unique event from Britain’s Royal Ascot. She has since expanded to other venues including Mallorca, Dubai, Madrid, Barcelona and Maryland, USA. So, ladies, this is an excuse to go shopping! Get your glad rags on, a hat or a fascinator. Gents, get smart, a Panama hat, or even a Top hat, will put a finishing touch to your outfit. This year the event celebrated the iconic image of the Menorcan horse, combined with an exhibition of vintage cars, a boat, live music, and award winning Menorcan gastronomy. The event was sponsored by Colibri Handmade Hats from Madrid, and many local businesses; Riccy, the beautiful boutique on Carrer Nou in Maó from where I purchased my fabulous cerise pink and feather fascinator. INNat Gin by Biniarbolla-Licors Artisan who have been distilling for over 50 years. You will of course have read the interview with Matthew Meacham in the June Issue. Pons Quintana, in business for over 60 years and exporting to over 50 countries Worldwide. Son Bou Rutas a Caballo, offering organised horse rides of 1 or 2 hours in the countryside, coastal paths and beaches for all ages and abilities. There were further Menorcan companies with stands to show what is on offer on our Island. The first stand I visited was Sa Ponsa, a luxurious countryside hotel, that has been cultivating vines for many years. I, of course, had to check that their sparkling Rosé was up to scratch! It certainly was. Pedro’s Boat from Maó had an ‘on land’ boat for photo opportunities also promoting a new business idea for people that like boating but without ‘owners’ costs. All were all serenaded by the duo, ‘angels-i-pau’. Our host Ariadna coerced my husband into being a judge for ‘Best Dressed’ awards at the end of the day. Dressed in our finery, he in all British and me in all Menorcan, we made our way to the judging stand. James was wearing a three piece ‘country gent’ suit from Marc Darcy London. For me, my fascinator was from Riccy, dress from Dress Code boutique Maó, and a pair of Mascaro heeled sandals, makers of the worldfamous Pretty Ballerinas, which often feature in Vogue or on the feet of the Royals. A European selection of judges awarded the prizes; The Best dressed couple were from an Alaior-based handmade Saddling business. Best dressed gent went to a Menorcan born, Spanish actor and influencer, and best dressed lady has links to our Menorcan cheese and farming produce industries. So, readers, if you find yourselves here on the last Saturday of May, get your finery out for HATS&HORSES Maó 2024. Website: hatsandhorses.com Facebook: Hats and Horses
ROQ U E TA M AGA ZI N E . N E T
Photo: Hats & Horses Menorca
