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Meg Dunne, Trainer at MDT

Meg Dunne, Head Trainer 

Originally from the East Coast, Meg grew up under top trainers including 4 star event rider Nancy Guyotte. Always on the search for another ride Meg competed in high school IEA. As a college student at Drew University, Meg trained most notably under Osvaldo Ornia Pacher of Palermo Show Stables primarily riding imported Argentinian Warmbloods for the hunter, jumper, and equitation rings. Meg also served as a rider for the Drew University Division 1 IHSA Team, piloting different horses to multiple equitation wins. 

After moving to the West Coast in 2013 Meg was able to further develop her love for troubled horses and hard cases. Meg has successfully repurposed a variety of horses into fruitful carriers, including ex race horses, "Premarin Foals," and wayward warmbloods. Since moving to the West Coast Meg has taken horses deemed "worthless" from ground zero to Grand Prix level. 

When Meg is not riding or showing, she fills her days with teaching.  Meg has a keen eye for detail, which she pairs with a gentle but firm demeanor and a good sense of humor. 

"We have been using Meg Dunne as our family trainer for approximately 3 years. We have never been happier! Meg is not only a highly skilled and accomplished rider, but her teaching skills are far superior to anyone I've come into contact with. She is dedicated, patient, calm, and very accommodating to all--regardless of rider experience. Her passion for teaching and love of horses is obvious the moment you walk into her arena. If you have the opportunity to work with Meghan, RUN to her barn! You will not be disappointed."

 

Jennifer O'Dell

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Delaney Emerson, Trainer

As the daughter of a trainer, Delaney Emerson has been on a horse since before she was born. She’s been eventing competitively since the age of five and has shown numerous horses through the Intermediate and two star level. Now 30 years old, Delaney has worked for some of the top riders in the world, including five-star eventers Anna Collier, Lillian Heard-Wood, John Camlin, and Caroline Martin. Before returning to Portland in spring of 2025, Delaney was the head trainer at a premier eventing facility outside of Memphis, Tennessee.

All her life, Delaney has understood and embraced the special challenges and immense rewards of training horses. She brought along her own 2007 OTTB High Caliber to multiple top-five wins at Training and Preliminary levels and has trained numerous horses for successful careers with their young rider and adult amateur owners.

 

Ashlee Turner, Assistant Trainer

An Oregon native, Ashlee Turner brings more than 25 years of experience with horses. Her journey began at age twelve with her first horse — a spirited off-the-track Thoroughbred mare who sparked a lifelong passion and taught her the value of patience, horsemanship, and communication. She grew up through 4-H, open shows, and OHSET, and went on to ride for Oregon State University's Intercollegiate Equestrian Team while earning her degree in Equine Science.

Ashlee began her professional career at Windfields Farm in Ontario, Canada, starting and training young Thoroughbreds for the racetrack. She spent five years as a professional exercise and breeze rider for several Hall of Fame trainers, earned her apprentice jockey license, and helped develop numerous Breeders' Cup champions and Kentucky Derby contenders.

The Pacific Northwest eventually called her home, where Ashlee found her next passion: teaching riders and developing young and difficult horses. She has been an assistant to several of the state's top hunter/jumper trainers and served as a barn manager, competing in hunters, breed shows, and open shows and earning championships across a variety of disciplines. Known for her positive, approachable style, she loves helping riders understand the "why" behind the basics — always emphasizing horse welfare, rider safety, and strong foundations.

Ashlee is thrilled to join Meg Dunne Training as an assistant trainer and instructor, teaching lessons, assisting with training, and supporting riders of all ages and levels. Outside the barn, she's happiest exploring the Pacific Northwest — especially hiking in search of wildlife — and looks forward to becoming part of the MDT team.

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