‘End of an Era’: With Career Earnings Over $2,500,000 Lifelong Equestrian and Iconic Breeder Passes Away at Advanced Age

Peggy Augustus was a beloved figure in the equestrian community. She was a renowned breeder of thoroughbreds and had a profound impact on the sport. Augustus had bred and owned champions such as Stellar Wind which won the Eclipse Award, and Johnny D., the champion of 1977. Augustus died in her home on the Old Keswick Farm on July 30. She was ninety years old.

From the age of ten till her death at ninety, Augustus dedicated her life to the equestrian world, leaving a lasting legacy. Her family was in the horse breeding business, and her mother used to take her to the racetracks. Hence, Augustus developed a deep passion for horses from a young age, which eventually led her to a successful career.

A lifelong love for horses

Her mother’s guidance helped to mold Peggy Augustus into a champion rider from a young age. As a teen, she collected wins at significant competitions such as Devon Horse Show, National Horse Show, Pennsylvania National, and the Royal Winter Fair. Peggy Augustus was later inducted into multiple Hall of Fame directories around the country. She was also honored with the Living Legend title by the National Horse Show in the year 1996. Augustus entered the horse breeding business after her father died in 1963. Their family owned and ran the Old Keswick Farm since 1952, but when Augustus took over, she renamed it Keswick Stables.

Under her expert care, the farm has produced many stakes winners. Besides Johnny D., she has also bred Husband, which became the grade 1 winner. She co-bred Stellar Wind with Stonestreet Thoroughbred Holdings. According to Blood Horse.com, the filly sold “for $40,000 during the Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale in 2013”. Stellar Wind became immensely popular later on for winning three graded stakes for Hronis Racing. Many have wondered about the secret behind her success as a breeder. Recently, one of her trainers shared the secret to her success that has made the equestrian community even more emotional.

Revealing Peggy Augustus’ equestrian secret

Bill Hirsch Jr. commended Augustus for her attention to detail when it came to caring for the horses. Speaking to Thoroughbred Daily News, he reminisced, “She never skimped on anything”. While most breeders prioritize the cost of breeding and training horses, Augustus focused on providing the best possible care for her horses. She believed that by giving them top-notch nutrition, veterinary care, and a comfortable living environment, they would thrive both physically and mentally.

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Most knew Augustus as an excellent rider and breeder. But Hirsh pointed out her significant contributions as a trainer and mentor to aspiring equestrians. Hirsh admired Augustus for her dedication to sharing her knowledge and expertise with others in the equestrian community. Through her training and mentorship, she not only produced exceptional horses but also helped shape the future generation of skilled riders. Her passion for the sport extended beyond her own success, making her a respected figure in the industry.

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