Orla McKenna announced as head of bloodstock for Tattersalls Ireland

Tattersalls Ireland has announced the appointment of Orla McKenna as head of bloodstock, a well-known figure who is currently in the role of bloodstock manager.

Having joined Tattersalls Ireland in 2006, McKenna has been an important member of the bloodstock team for the last 16 years co-ordinating entries and being a point of contact for vendors throughout the sales process.

McKenna has been involved with horses from a young age, starting with ponies and pony racing, the highlight being a win in the 1983 Dingle Derby.

She also rode as an amateur for the late Dessie Hughes before being approached by George Mernagh who offered her a role at Tattersalls Ireland.

McKenna returned to the saddle in 2018 when she began riding out at Gavin Cromwell’s yard in preparation for the Corinthian Challenge.

Orla McKenna wins the last leg of the 2018 Corinthian Challenge at LeopardstownCredit: Patrick McCann (racingpost.com/photos)

Tattersalls Ireland CEO Simon Kerins said: "I'm delighted to announce Orla as head of bloodstock for Tattersalls Ireland. Orla is not only highly respected by all her colleagues but also Tattersalls Ireland clients and she has been a real asset to the company for the past sixteen years. Orla’s experience, knowledge and expertise make her ideal for the position as head of bloodstock.”

McKenna added: “I'm thrilled to be appointed as head of bloodstock for Tattersalls Ireland, I'm very enthusiastic about my new role which will help deliver on Tattersalls Ireland strategies and ambitions.

"I'm proud to be associated with such a strong brand within the industry and I look forward to working closely with our unrivalled inspection panel as we turn our attention to securing top quality horses for the Derby Sale and May Store Sale as well as the Goresbridge Breeze-Up Sale.”

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