Augusta Iwasaki and Small Love Claim $15,000 USHJA National 3’ Jr/Am Hunter Derby Victory
Ocala Winter Spectacular Show Series II
January 13, 2026 at 12:44 PMBy b.wehner
A picture-perfect Friday afternoon set the stage for the $15,000 USHJA National 3’ Jr/Am Hunter Derby at World Equestrian Center, drawing 40 junior and amateur riders to compete for top honors. Augusta Iwasaki and Reilly’s Small Love (Chacco Blue x Wisilvia) delivered a standout performance to capture the win.
The 13-year-old Warmblood mare and Iwasaki showcased their experience in the derby ring with a polished classic round, earning a score of 92 to take the early lead.
Heading into the handy round, Iwasaki opted for a careful, calculated approach designed to suit her mare’s strengths. The strategy paid off, as the pair posted a 94 in the handy, giving them a two-round total of 186 and securing the victory.
Iwasaki and Small Love’s performance demonstrated both precision and consistency, reinforcing their status as a competitive duo in junior and amateur hunter competition. The $15,000 Jr/Am Hunter Derby highlighted the skill, style, and composure required to excel at this level, with Iwasaki and Small Love setting the standard for the day.
Photo by Andrew Ryback Photography
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