Chun-Mae Hauschka © Benoit Photo

The 32nd annual Opening Day Hats Contest at Del Mar drew more than 150 contestants. Categories included Most Glamorous, Best Fascinator, Best Flowers, and Best Racing/All Others Themes. Contestants competed for more than $5,000 in cash and prizes. 

The Grand Prize winner is Chun-Mae Hauschka of Laguna Niguel who competed in the Best Fowers category, and has won a two night stay, two tickets to a theatre show, $500 meal credit & $500 in free play at Yaamava' Resort & Casino, including a one-night stay and meal for two at Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa, and finally a $500 Studio Savvy Salon gift basket. A total grand prize value worth over $2,500.

Hauschka wore her hand-made showstopping creation oversized star-spangled blooms and flag-print roses in bold red, white, and blue. This stunning bouquet was crowned with a “Happy Birthday America” medallion celebrating the USA’s 250th. The dramatic scale, crisp patriotic palette, and handcrafted florals had the judges beaming. Chun-Mae is eternally grateful to be a naturalized US Citizen, and a very proud American!

First place in the category of “Most Glamorous” goes to Aimee Fuller of San Diego. Aimee studied aerodynamics while crafting this breathtaking feathered masterpiece — a cascade of red, white, and blue plumes rising skyward, while accented with silver stars. Her hat was paired with a bold scarlet gown and a sparkling star clutch. Sophisticated, striking, and simply glamorous!

First place in Fascinator goes to Kelly Brown of Newport, California. Handcrafted by Kelly herself, this bold red, white, and blue feathered creation honors her son currently serving in the U.S. Army — and celebrates America’s 250th birthday. Her beautiful hat was accented by a striking blue lace gown to complete her patriotic palette that really impressed the judges. Heartfelt, spirited, and truly stunning!

First place in “Best Racing Theme” goes to Julie Karcsay from Cardiff by the Sea. A Del Mar teacher, Julie spent 50 hours crafting this stunning turquoise wave, crowned with a galloping racehorse and jockey mid-stride. Paired with a crisp white eyelet dress and a horse bit detailed handbag topped with its own charging steed. Her devotion to the track shines. Spirited, meticulous, and pure Del Mar, where the turf meets the surf.

Finalists From left to right: 
Julie Karcsay, Cardiff
Aimee Fuller, San Diego
Kelly Brown, Newport Beach
Chun-Mae Hauschka, Laguna Niguel