Back on Track Sponsored Athlete Augusta Van Tongeren spent her early years in the jumper world, developing a natural feel for horses and a deep appreciation for their athleticism.
However, it was an unexpected journey into rehabilitating her first horse that introduced her to dressage and sparked a lifelong fascination with biomechanics. Today, Augusta remains passionate about how training can enhance not only performance but also comfort, soundness, and confidence.
Augusta is a successful dressage rider, trainer, and USDF L graduate, all while maintaining a full-time career in finance. Her dual path, balancing a professional career alongside her equestrian ambitions, allows her to be intentional in developing both her horses and her students.
Keep reading to discover her top tips for your next dressage test.
Training and Rehabilitation
When Augusta purchased her first horse with babysitting money at the age of 14, she didn’t realize she was beginning a long rehabilitation journey that would completely shift her equestrian ambitions.
That experience ignited her passion for biomechanics and the belief that correct training could improve not only a horse’s performance but also their comfort, soundness, and confidence.
Rehabilitation has been a recurring theme in Augusta’s story. Her current horse also came with several existing issues that threatened the future of his competitive career.
With patience, careful management, and daily use of Back on Track products, Augusta has successfully brought him back to earn top scores at rated shows in New England and even win classes at the World Equestrian Center.
“I’m a sucker for a rehab project,” she admits. “Each time you restart, you have the opportunity to make things better than before. It forces you to slow down, pay attention, and really perfect the basics.”
Ride-a-Test Clinics
As a USDF L graduate, Augusta has a special appreciation for the grassroots side of the sport.
She frequently judges schooling shows and teaches ride-a-test clinics, which she describes as invaluable for building riders’ confidence and creating positive experiences for both horse and rider.
Here are her top three tips for preparing for your next dressage test.
- Practice rein length changes without losing rhythm or relaxation.
- School transitions everywhere, not just where they appear in tests.
- Ride centerlines often without halting, to test straightness and balance.
Augusta emphasizes that small details, practiced consistently, make a big difference when it’s time to step into the show ring.
“That first turn off centerline is the judge’s first impression,” she notes.
Back on Track
Back on Track has been part of Augusta’s toolkit since the very beginning of her dressage career.
“My last horse’s back issues introduced me to Back on Track. I’ve used their products ever since,” she says.
Augusta relies on Trauma Void helmets with MIPS technology for protection, Quick Wraps and Cool on Track Boots to support her horses’ circulation and recovery, and saddle pads, mesh sheets, and quarter sheets to keep her horses warm, supple, and relaxed in every season.
She also uses Back on Track performance gear for herself, including a vest and scarf to manage neck arthritis and tension headaches.
“Back on Track products keep my horse happy, relaxed, and confident,” Augusta explains. “And they keep me in the saddle feeling my best, too.”
Looking Ahead
Augusta is currently working toward competing at Regionals, bringing her horse up the levels, and even exploring Western dressage—a discipline she also judges.
Alongside her own competitive goals, she’s excited to keep teaching clinics and working with riders who share her passion for thoughtful, horse-centered training.
“I may not have a huge program, but I’m passionate about horse health,” she says. “That’s why I love working with Back on Track. These products truly support horses through every stage, whether they’re rehabbing, competing, or just learning to love the work.”
Learn more about August on her website: www.platinumsporthorses.com/
