History was indeed made at the bloodstock sales when Shirley Anderson-Jolag took on a remarkable feat. Standing on the famous rostrum at Park Paddocks in Newmarket during the Tattersalls December Foal Sale, she became Britain's first female bloodstock auctioneer. This momentous occasion not only saw the sale of lot 211, a filly by Ubettabelieveit, but also etched her name in the history books as the first to sell a horse in this capacity at Tattersalls and at a public thoroughbred sale in Britain or Ireland.

Unstoppable Women in Bloodstock Auctioneering

Journey to Becoming a Bloodstock Auctioneer

When Shirley Anderson-Jolag decided to pursue this career path, it was a two-year journey of dedicated practice. A solid year of working with Edmond [Mahony] laid a strong foundation. Harvey Bell also played a crucial role in her development, providing valuable support. Additionally, she has sold cattle, antiques, and even participated in after-auction races and charity events. About a year and a half ago, Hannah Wall and David Redvers gave her her first charity auction at a hunt ball, which pushed her to take the leap. This experience was both nerve-wracking and rewarding.Standing behind Edmond as she ascended to the front of the rostrum, she felt extremely nervous, as if she were sick as a dog. However, the sight of people entering the ring gave her a sense of joy and made her realize that she had the support of others. Once she completed her first sale, she felt more at ease.

Role within Tattersalls and Recent Achievements

Anderson-Jolag has been a longstanding member of the Tattersalls team, joining in 2015. Since then, she has played a key role in developing and promoting Tattersalls sales at Cheltenham. Her recent role as UK Client Relations liaison for Tattersalls Ireland has further enhanced her influence. Earlier this year, she was promoted to Sales Manager of Tattersalls Cheltenham, a position she has seamlessly adapted to. At the Tattersalls Cheltenham November Sale in her new management role, strong trade was witnessed throughout, highlighting her effectiveness in this new capacity.As an active owner/breeder in both the Flat and National Hunt spheres, she has been instrumental in the growth of Tattersalls Cheltenham Sales in recent years. She has established strong relationships with vendors and purchasers in both markets, demonstrating her ability to navigate different aspects of the industry.

Looking Ahead and Encouraging Others

Auctioneering has been a long-held ambition of Anderson-Jolag's for over two years, and she has managed to develop this skill while fulfilling her day-to-day responsibilities. She is hopeful that Tuesday's debut will inspire more women to enter the unique world of bloodstock auctioneering. She returns to the rostrum on Saturday for the last day of foals, and she expressed her hope that in five years, it will become the norm for many women to be involved in this field. This weighs on her mind positively as she wants to set an example for other women coming through.She believes that with determination and support, more women can make their mark in this male-dominated industry and create their own success stories. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the breaking of barriers.