March 28, 2004

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The University of South Carolina Equestrian team finished third in the Southern Equestrian Championships with a grand total of 805 points on Saturday, March 27 at Auburn University. The Gamecocks competed against the Auburn Tigers and the Georgia Bulldogs.

The Garnet and Black finished second in Hunt Seat behind the Tigers with a total score of 429 points. Second year student Chelsea Koornick, and co-captain Tara Brothers were awarded the second and third highest scores in Hunt Seat Over Fences.

The Gamecocks remained consistent, finishing second in Western behind their arch rivals the Georgia Bulldogs. The final score was Georgia with 406.25 points, USC with 376 points. Freshman Rachel Sternoff helped contribute with her score of 75 points, which was the highest score received by any Horsemanship rider. Elizabeth Briley also helped the Gamecock’s cause with the second highest Reining score of 62.5 points.

“We were pretty strong in Horsemanship and Over Fences,” said head coach Boo Duncan. “These girls have had a long season, which started in August. Overall, I am proud of their efforts, however, we have some homework to do before the Varsity Championships.” The Gamecocks are preparing to travel to Rome, Ga. for the Zone 5 Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) Finals on April 2-3. The time for the competition has yet to be announced.

Gamecock High Scores: Western Horsemanship: Rachel Sternoff, 75 points Western Reining: Elizabeth Briley, 62.5 points Hunt Seat Equitation: Tara Brothers, 70 points Hunt Seat Over Fences: Chelsea Koornick, 80 points