East Rutherford, NJ — Emmy Award-winning TV personality, style expert, fashion designer, interior designer, and New York Times best-selling author Carson Kressley is the 2024 Hambletonian Ambassador.
Kressley, a lifelong horseman who owns and shows Saddlebreds and Standardbred Roadsters, will ride a Saddlebred from North Wind Stables, Hardwick, N.J., to lead the post parades for both the $1.05 million Hambletonian and $525,000 Hambletonian Oaks. He will also present the trophies for both races.
Carson will also be judging the Hambletonian hat contest. Fans are encouraged to bring their most creative hat to win the grand prize in the $500 hat contest. Prizes will also be awarded for second place ($250), third place ($100), fourth place ($50), and the most elegant hat wins $100. Contestants can sign up until 2:30 p.m. in the Clubhouse lobby. Kressley will judge the hats from the winner’s circle following race nine.
Fans are also encouraged to dress to impress and wear their best summer attire, especially in the dining areas Trotters, Pink, Skybox Suites, the Lounge, and Victory Terrace. Prize packages will be awarded to the snazziest dressers, and a 360° camera will be installed in the lobby so fashionistas can strike a pose.