Sept. 22, 2005

Columbia, S.C. – The Gamecock equestrian team opens their season with a home competition again the Kentucky Wildcats on Friday, Sept. 23.

Head Coach Boo Duncan led the Gamecocks to win their first national title in 2005, at the Santa Fe Horse Park in New Mexico. South Carolina took first place in the Hunt Seat discipline, scoring 40 points. They then scored 20 points in the Western discipline, capturing the national title for the Gamecocks.

This is the second season the `Varsity Format’ will be used in Division I equestrian. The new format eliminates the need for lower level riders, shortens the competition day and is competitor and fan friendly; making it similar to other NCAA sports.

Senior Tara Brothers the 2004 Hunter Seat National Champion, returns this season to lead the Gamecocks. The team is working hard to win another national championship.

The competition will be at One Wood Farm in Blythewood and is set to begin at 2:00 p.m.