Profielen
Taizo comes from an equestrian family. His father Masayasu Sugitani competed in showjumping at the Olympic Games in 1968, 1972 and 1976, and his grandfather Koichi Kawaguchi competed in showjumping at the 1956 Olympic Games. He is coached by Peter Wylde and relocated to The Netherlands at age 18. One of his proudest moments is finishing 10th at the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, United States. Taizo’s moto is to "forget the past and future, concentrate on present." His ambition is to be among the best in the world. In retirement he hopes to become a top-level trainer and produce riders who compete at international level.
Fast Facts
Taizo has competed in five Olympic Games (1996, 2000, 2004, 2008, 2012) and six World Championships (1994, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014)
2011 4* Saltzburg Grand Prix winner with Avenzio 3
2012 3* Leszno Grand Prix winner with Avenzio 3
2013 3* Ascona Grand Prix winner with Avenzio 3
2013 3*San Giovanni Grand Prix winner with Whisper
Taizo enjoys golf and driving when he is not competing