New Paths Ahead for Trainer Ashley Dunbar-Clock

“There is nothing like a dream to create the future.” ~ Victor Hugo

For Ashley Dunbar-Clock, the day to chase her dreams to start her own training business has arrived.  For the last eight years, Ashley has been a notable and highly successful trainer at Highpoint Performance Horses, contributing her talent to the team and learning from the best.

“I’ve literally soaked in everything I could from Jason and Charlie about running a business, handling clients, training horses, and choosing horses. Compared to when I came, there’s a night and day difference to what I’ve learned,” she explains. Her time with Jeff Mellott, another key trainer on the Highpoint team, has also become a cherished part of her experience. “It has been nice riding with him and

benefitting from another set of experienced eyes, and he’s been a big part of my everyday riding and training.”

An opportune time has come for Ashley to start training under her own name, as Highpoint plans to return to its roots with what Jason Martin describes as a small boutique business with the clients they’ve had for many years.  “As we look forward to semi-retirement and celebrate the great careers we’ve had, we want to finish the way we started,” he explains.  Jason and Charlie are planning their semi-retirement carefully with fewer numbers of horses, and that includes Ashley spreading her wings, a plan they all made together. “The most logical choice for us was to have Ashley go out on her own; we want to cut back, and we want her to fly,” Jason says.

“We know she’ll be successful because she’s very talented and the group of clients she’ll be taking with her just adore her,” Jason explains.  “We really believe in Ashley and we want to set her up for success; she’s been such an integral part of our own success and she has been like my right hand person.”

Charlie Cole echoes Jason’s sentiments about the vital part Ashley has played in Highpoint’s achievements for the past eight years.  “She brings so much to the table: exceptional riding, impeccable organization skills, and a great attitude working with others. I am excited to see her go out on her own and I know she will be very successful. And I look forward to cheering her on and continuing our friendship,” he says.

Jeff Mellott agrees, adding that the biggest reason for Ashley’s continued success is the fact that she loves the horses.  He explains, “She’s passionate about the industry, she likes working with people and she’s really good at it. Ashley just loves all aspects of the business.”

Ashley’s clients can look forward to her remaining in Pilot Point, Texas, and for her also to continue in her forte’ of the all-around.  She says she’s big on family, and she’s eager for the flexibility she’ll have to allow her more family time and involvement.  “My husband, Cody, has supported every decision I’ve ever made, and we have a 10-year-old son who has shown interest in showing a bit; this will be a good way to let him pursue that.”

Jason concludes, “Ashley has the building blocks to be successful, she has the clientele and she has the knowledge and work ethic. I’ll do whatever is in my power to support her, and we’re excited for her as our careers are slowing down, because hers is just beginning.”

To reach Ashley Dunbar-Clock, email her at adunbar11@yahoo.com, or call 1-805-207-9817.