PICTURES: Wrapped-up Irish racegoers bring style, sparkle and big smiles to Leopardstown

Rain, delays and heavy ground weren’t enough to dampen spirits as racegoers from across Ireland and beyond turned out in force for the Dublin Racing Festival at Leopardstown today.

After a 24-hour delay due to heavy rain, wrapped-up racegoers arrived in force but still brought plenty of style and sparkle to the occasion.

USE THE ARROWS OR 'NEXT' TO BROWSE THROUGH THE FULL GALLERY

From bold coats and statement hats to sharp suits and race-day finery, the fashion stakes were as high as ever despite the testing conditions underfoot.

The weather may have caused disruption but it didn’t dampen spirits as punters posed for photos, queued at the bars, and the buzz slowly built as the delayed festival finally burst into life.

Former Irish soccer star Shane Long was spotted amongst the crowd, as was JP McManus and a jubilant Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary whose horse Brighterdaysahead turned the tables on Lossiemouth to claim top honours in the Timeless Sash Windows Irish Champion Hurdle.

USE THE ARROWS OR 'NEXT' TO BROWSE THROUGH THE FULL GALLERY

On the track, there were plenty of talking points once racing got underway. Kaid d’Authie caused a stir in the Ladbrokes Novice Chase, while Talk The Talk made amends with a dramatic late surge. Majborough impressed in the Dublin Chase, and Brighterdaysahead claimed top honours in a headline clash of the mares.

Sunday was proof that even bad weather and a delayed start can’t stop Irish racegoers from turning out in style. Saturday’s scheduled card has been rescheduled by 48 hours and will now take place on Monday.