ONE hundred industry stakeholders gathered in the Bridge House Hotel, Tullamore, on Thursday, April 18th, to participate in the sold out ‘Connect, Select & Grow’ event.

This new event consisted of three sessions: networking, stallion selection and growing your market. Attendees enthusiastically engaged with one another, developing new contacts and strengthening existing relationships during the lively opening networking session.

Speaking about the event, organiser Michael Doherty told The Irish Field: “It was an incredibly diverse group of people, and hugely rewarding to watch so many new connections being formed. Attendees engaged with one another in such a positive and respectful manner. I’m grateful for the support the industry showed for this event, and the energy attendees brought to it.”

What they said

Michael is a passionate student of the breeding world, and brave enough to break new ground and share his experiences. Three of his main presentation themes were exceptionally useful; It’s all about the mare, it’s about marketing your horses like a luxury product, it’s about making social media your friend and partner. We need more evenings like this, with more sharing and mutual support between all breeders.

William Micklem - Annacrivey Stud

The event gave me an opportunity to engage in interesting conversations with a diverse range of people within our industry. Without a platform like this, for me as a younger breeder, there are limited possibilities to have interactions like I had at this event. I found the event very interesting and thought-provoking, as well as widening my horizons from a networking perspective.

Shane Donohoe - Acrehill Stables

A very well organised and thought-provoking event. The Networking and Growing Your Market sections were particularly interesting. It’s always fantastic to be given the opportunity to meet up with fellow breeders and industry professionals. Some great relationships were built on, and exciting new contacts made on the night.

Ray Carroll - Carroll Brothers Ireland