Michael Doherty

“I first got to know Michael through his excellent podcast “Big Talk for Breeders”. There is really nothing like it among podcasts for horse people, definitely not when it comes to horse breeding. Michael has an admirable way of making people comfortable; always kind, transparent, reliable and willing to help. He is very knowledgeable in all things equine, respecting science and practical experience alike, and boasts an impressive network in the horse sector. I’ve very much enjoyed working with Michael in different projects, finding him creative, hardworking and fun to collaborate with!”

“Michael Doherty: He is efficient, transparent and reliable.”

“Over the past eight years, Michael and I have not only done repeat business, but also became great friends in the process. He is one of the most knowledgeable, transparent and honourable people in our industry. I look forward to many more years of continued friendship and business.”

“I’ve worked with Michael now for some years, and find him always positive and hard working. He does his homework and always tells the truth. I’ve sourced and sold some very nice horses through him, and I’m happy to have such a solid contact in Ireland!”

“I have known Michael for eight years - as an equine educator, horse breeder and promoter of the Irish Sport Horse Industry: His depth and breadth of equine knowledge is impressive, as are his communication skills. In all areas he looks for scientific and factual proof when comparing various options, and is therefore both a much respected and credible voice in the industry. His ‘Big Talk For Breeders’ series have been particularly useful in offering breeders a range of information and advice from a wide spectrum of international experts. Michael is totally trustworthy and a refreshingly independent and valuable support to my equestrian endeavours. ”

“Once in a while you make a decision that has a major impact on your life. In how you look at, and do, what you do. One of those decisions for me was to listen to ‘Big Talk For Breeders’, hosted by Michael. The knowledge and thought provocation I’ve gained is immeasurable. Even more impactful was the subsequent phone call to Michael - realising how authentic he was, and later his acceptance of an invitation to come to New Zealand. He and Emma Thorén Hellsten carried out a number of farm visits and public talks. I believe this visit by Michael and Emma will have an impact on the breeding of showjumpers in New Zealand for generations.
I will always have sincere and grateful thanks to Michael.”

“Michael is hugely passionate about breeding and has an encyclopaedic knowledge of high performance pedigrees from all over the world.”

“Michael helped me to source a filly from one of the most sought-after damlines in Europe. He took the time to understand exactly what I wanted, and was 100% transparent throughout the entire process. He didn’t hesitate to point out the pros and cons of different options, and in the end, I’m delighted with how my filly has turned out. Michael keeps in touch, shares news & information and is always approachable for any help. I couldn’t recommend him highly enough.
If you need a mare - go to Michael.”

“I first met Michael in his role as the facilitator for the Tipperary Knowledge Transfer (KT) group. I was struck by Michael’s professionalism, knowledge, enthusiasm & ambition throughout the three years of the KT programme. As time progressed, Michael has become a trusted confidant & advisor for the family breeding programme.”

“Michael was invaluable when purchasing my very first broodmare. Michael took the time to understand what I wanted. His networking in the equine industry helped me choose exactly what I wanted, and I am delighted with my purchase. I have no hesitation recommending Michael.”

“When I made the decision to look for a broodmare with a proven pedigree, I called Michael to acquire his services. I found Michael to be knowledgeable of the industry and just overall very genuine. Within days he came back with a list of mares to meet my requirements & I now have a mare (Beatrice 111 Z) which I couldn’t be happier with. Thank you Michael.”

“From my first introduction to Michael I have found him to be very approachable and extremely well informed regarding pedigree & performance. From sourcing mares for my breeding programme, to selling my foals, his advice has been second to none.”

“Over the past number of years Michael has played an integral part in upgrading my mares. Through Michael I have purchased three mares from very good families and he recently sourced a yearling filly from me from one of the most influential mare lines in Europe. Through Michael I have also been able to sell my young horses from home.”

“I have known Michael for eight years. I participated in a Knowledge Transfer group, facilitated by Michael, where his interpersonal skills gelled the group. The landmark stud visit by the group to Dr Noel Cawley’s was exceptional. Michael’s knowledge and competence makes him highly respected in the horse world. His integrity makes him the go-to man for me.”

“Michael helped me acquire my first broodmare. He has been extremely helpful to me during the process. Michael is very honest, open and willing to help wherever possible. His podcasts are also invaluable to any breeder, so check out Big Talk For Breeders! Thanks again Michael, look forward to future business.”

“Michael was a huge support to our group. From building a website, producing our catalogue for our annual shows to include the most up to date performance records of families and providing breeding advice for group stock. His guidance has been invaluable to us. A true professional and a complete gentleman.”

“I know Michael for many years - being former work colleagues & through our friendship built from a shared passion of sport horses. Michael has worked hard to develop an extensive international network of clients & industry contacts. His reach is global. He is well placed to guide and serve his clients. ”

“Michael went above and beyond in helping us find our next broodmare. Taking the time to consider all our individual requirements, while also giving suggested guidance. He made the option of purchasing abroad way less daunting. Leaving me feeling more confident in my overall knowledge in time spent in communication with him, during the search and through open dialogue following. An impeccable service, we highly recommend.”

“I reached to Michael for advice when considering adding a new mare to our broodmare herd, with the hope of breeding a top level show jumper. It was an idea I had been mulling over for some time, but hadn’t acted on for fear of investing what would be a considerable amount of money for me on the wrong mare. Michael was very helpful in chatting through my breeding goals and then assisting me in sourcing a mare from mainland Europe to tick all the boxes. Buying from one of his contacts was ideal, as I felt I could really trust the seller. My gorgeous mare Mabel van Der Renger arrived last January and, having gone in foal at first cover, I am very excited to see what the resulting foal looks like in a few months time.”

“Hard to find nowadays someone so trustworthy, transparent and easy to work with like Michael. Great communication through the whole sales process - a real joy.”

“I first reached out to Michael via his website when contemplating the purchase of a broodmare. From the very first conversation it was clear that Michael was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about breeding, and horses in general. He took the time to understand what I wanted, and sourced a broodmare for me. I found Michael to be very honest, trustworthy and a pleasure to work with. I have gone back to Michael for repeat business on a few occasions with a positive experience every time. Excellent service. ”

“Michael has a passion for the industry. His media work is excellent. He is an interesting commentator and is very professional in his approach. Michael has built up good connections in the breeding business around Europe through his integrity. He is a good option for those looking to acquire a breeding prospect from a good black type family.”