The Plaid Horse Questionnaire With: Augusta Iwasaki

Augusta Iwasaki. Photo by KIND Media

Status: Junior 
Hometown: Calabasas, CA  
Trainers: Elizabeth Reilly, Ken Smith, Emily Smith, and Erica Quinn 

As a horsewoman, I am most proud of the development and success of all my young horses. 

As a horsewoman, I would like to improve on my knowledge of every part of the sport. 

The greatest lesson from my pony-riding days was to let go of the bad days. 

The best part about being a catch-rider is getting the opportunity to ride amazing horses who have given me priceless experience. 

The horse person I admire the most is my mom [Liz Reilly].

I sometimes wish I had the time to learn how to speak Japanese. 

My favorite show is Devon. 

Photo by Andrew Ryback Photography

I enjoy showing in the jumper ring because it’s allowed me to develop my riding from a different perspective. 

One of my greatest show ring victories was being Grand Junior Hunter Champion at WIHS and winning Maclay regionals last year. 

The part of riding I’m best at is keeping calm under pressure. 

The part of riding I struggle most with is focus.  

I would be lost without a book in my tack trunk and a protein bar in my ring bag.  

On Mondays, you’ll find me sleeping.  

I’m a sucker for a pretty bay. 

My favorite horse book is Judging: Want the Facts? 

My favorite non-horse book is Crescent City. 

Photo by Phelps Sports/Libby Greene

I think the biggest misconception about our sport is how much time [it takes] and how difficult our sport really is.

My future goal is to consistently be at the top of this sport as a professional. 

My best piece of advice for young riders is: push through the bad days and be kind to yourself.  

My motto is: Always keep your head up.


*This story was originally published in the October/November 2022 issue of The Plaid Horse. Click here to read it now and subscribe for issues delivered straight to your door!

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