Connect, Select & Grow

 

THE CONCEPT

Connect, Select & Grow is an event concept that provides breeders with industry insight, meaningful connections, and practical tools for informed decision-making.

Following an initial event in Stockholm in 2023 and its formal launch in 2024, the series has since returned to Ireland, expanded internationally, and now enters its third Irish edition as a recognised annual forum for engaged sport horse breeders.

THE TEAM

Having met in 2021 through a shared interest in podcasting and breeder education, Emma Thorén Hellsten and Michael Doherty have since worked together on several projects and breeder events in Ireland, New Zealand, Norway and Sweden.

Emma Thorén Hellsten

  • Breeding & genetics specialist within sport horses

  • Consultant specialising in knowledge transfer, education & strategic development within the equine sector

  • Project Manager at the National Equestrian Centers Flyinge & Strömsholm, Sweden

  • Former Breeding Manager of the Swedish Warmblood Association (SWB), with extensive experience in national breeding programmes & international collaboration

  • PhD in Animal Science (genetic evaluation of sport horses) – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Sweden

  • Provider of coaching services through the Catalyzing Coaching® menthod

Michael Doherty

  • Breeder of showjumpers at Quarryfield Farm - County Sligo, Ireland

  • Creator & host of the 'Big Talk For Breeders' podcast

  • Breeding event organiser & host

  • Host of the RDS Breeders’ Talk (IRL) & Wellington Breeders’ Talk (USA)

  • Former Marketing Executive with Horse Sport Ireland

  • Holds a Bachelor of Business Studies (BBS) in Equine Business - NUI Maynooth, Ireland

 

EVENT SESSIONS

 

CONNECT

A workshop designed to help attendees build meaningful connections, clarify individual goals, and share practical experiences within their group.

 

select

Emma Thorén Hellsten shares breeding knowledge, demonstrates online tools and resources, and shows how to interpret them.

 

Grow

Through industry observations, Michael Doherty shows attendees how they can stay connected with the sport and the market.