Shelby's Surprise Birthday Party

Carroll Shelby was honored by Barrett-Jackson officials during the Opening Night Gala at WestWorld in Scottsdale, Arizona, on Monday, January 14.

The celebration honored Shelby’s 85th birthday. He was presented with a cake in the shape of the new Barrett-Jackson Shelby GT as well as a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday.”
 
“We were honored to have Carroll as our special guest during our Monday Night Gala,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. “With his legendary musclecars and his warm heart, Carroll reaches across many demographics of design and performance enthusiasts. We wish Carroll a happy birthday and look forward to hosting his 90th birthday party.”

“The doctors told me I was supposed to be horizontal right now,” Shelby noted. “But I’m still moving and will fight to be here for my 90th birthday. I’m pleased to have worked so long with the Barrett-Jackson team. They are such great friends. And of course, we wouldn’t be where we are if it weren’t for our great partnership with Ford Motor Company.”
 
Barrett-Jackson reps in attendance included Craig Jackson, Steve Davis, Gary Bennett, and Ritchie Fliegler. Robert Parker, car marketing manager for Ford division, was also present and extended his appreciation for the long-time partnership between the two companies. In addition to Carroll Shelby and his wife, Cleo, Shelby Automobiles was represented by Amy Boylan, president of Shelby Automobiles; Jim Owens, vice president of marketing; and Gary Patterson, vice president of manufacturing.