About MDPH

PictureMichael & Dawn Damianos
After graduating from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo Michael Damianos knew he wanted to train horses and judge horse shows.  Michael Damianos Performance Horses was established in December of 1982 and the story began.  Originally focusing on American Quarter horses, MDPH has evolved into a boutique Arabian horse training business, specializing in training Arabian and Half Arabian horses in all western disciplines, sport horses, showmanship, equitation and hunter pleasure.  American Quarter Horses are still welcome and are a large part of our legacy.  Michael also coaches amateur riders in the same events.  Since 1991, Starbuck's Ojai Valley Ranch has been the home of Michael Damianos Performance Horses.
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​Michael has judged many prestigious shows throughout the United States, Canada, South America, Europe, Australia, and Japan.  His trail, reining and showmanship clinics have been enjoyed by scores of amateur and professional  horsemen.  Michael has also been a pioneer in modern trail course design.  He is a past recipient of the APAHA Working Western Trainer of the Year Award (twice) and the USEF Barbara Worth Equestrian of Honor award.

Michael is married to Dawn Damianos, an elementary school principal.   They have two daughters, Shelbee   and Zoe.
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The Damianos Girls

MDPH Today
HOUSE OF STOP

Specializing in Arabian and Half Arabian Training, Instruction  & Sales 
“Ah, but a man's reach should exceed his grasp, or what's a heaven for?” - Robert Browning
"Dreams are first seen as impossible, then seem improbable, and finally, when we commit ourselves, become inevitable." - Mahatma Gandhi
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