A few minutes with… Emilee McClun
Longtime Laurel Park outrider
Guest Author
October 13, 2026
by Emily Fewster
One rainy morning at Laurel Park, I sat down to catch up with outrider Emilee McClun.
Emilee has been an outrider for the Maryland Jockey Club for many years, working both mornings and afternoons. On her days off, she gallops horses or helps others around the barns or on the racetrack.
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So many varied backgrounds come together to make our backstretch civilization. Understanding this provides insight into the diversity and personalities it takes to build this eclectic community.
Emilee told me she has worked at the racetrack since she was 16.
“My mom’s friend took me on a trail ride, and I went with her to work,” she recalled. “I looked down the track and knew this was what I wanted to do.” She began her journey by ponying horses.
Emilee shared that her family wasn’t into racing, but her mom rescued horses. “We always had horses since I was little,” she said.
Emilee shared that she’s worked at several racetracks over the years.
“Each year, I’ve learned a little more,” she said. “Each track is a little different, and I’ve learned something new at each place, whether it’s about the dynamics of the racetrack or tips on tough horses from other riders.”
Emilee works with up to four other outriders. “It’s about communication without talking, timing, and being willing to work as a team. You learn to be one with your outriding partners, and after a while, it all just kind of comes together.”
She is not blind to the job’s dangers, having narrowly avoided serious injury in a full-body incident during the Laurel Park spring meet.
With a consistent daily presence in the Laurel Park community, Emilee also strives to maintain a healthy work-life balance. She continues to advocate for rider and horse wellness while spending quality time with her family. You will sometimes see their smiles at the races or when they visit her at work over the rail. She shares her life and passion for horses with her three kids and two dogs.
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