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| Staff Writer |
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Sales history was penned at Park Paddocks as Shirley Anderson-Jolag stepped onto the rostrum, becoming Britain's first female bloodstock auctioneer. Making her accomplished debut at the Tattersalls December Foal Sale, she knocked down her first lot, a colt by Ubettabelieveit from Mickley Stud.
The historic moment saw Peter Kelly securing the youngster at US$1,370, signing under HWRS. Breaking from traditional sales ring decorum, onlookers burst into spontaneous applause as Anderson-Jolag brought down the gavel for the first time.
While Anderson-Jolag leads the charge in Britain, female auctioneers have previously graced rostrums globally. Stephanie Grentell commanded the Inglis Scone Yearling Sale in Australia (2014), whilst Aurelie Branere wielded the gavel at Arqana's Autumn Sale in Deauville (2015).
"I really enjoyed it, but the 10 minutes before were fairly nerve-wracking," reflected Anderson-Jolag. "It flew by. All I remember is looking around seeing all my favorite people. The ring was full of people who've been there from day one of my Tattersalls career, as well as clients who've since become great friends."
The debutante auctioneer demonstrated quick thinking when handling an unexpected intrusion, as an upcoming lot burst through the rope and entered the ring prematurely. "The round of applause was nice, but then during the next lot the foal burst his way into the ring!" she recalled. "It's all good experience, though."
Having joined the Tattersalls team in 2015, Anderson-Jolag's ascent to the rostrum fulfils a long-held ambition. "Until last night I hadn't really thought about it, but when someone posted about it on social media was when it really hit me. I wanted to be good for me but also for other women as well and for everyone else."
Preparation proved key to her composed performance: "I was very good the night before; I went to bed early and left my phone outside my bedroom for the first time in my life, so I didn't look at any form of social media. I practiced this morning and did a test run. I felt sick before, but I really loved it, and actually, I wish I'd had a few more to sell."
The groundbreaking appointment has garnered robust support within Tattersalls, the world's oldest bloodstock auction house, marking a progressive step forward in the industry's evolution.