June 28, 2010

COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina senior Chloe Gray won the USEF National Youth Reining Championship (19-21 age division) at the 2010 NRHA Derby, held at the State Fair Arena in Oklahoma City.

Riding Repeat Fine Footwork, Gray scored 144.5 to win the championship. She beat Lyndsey Jordan and Breanne Bertrand, who both tied for second with scores of 142.5.

“We are so proud of Chloe for winning her age group at the Derby,” head coach Boo Major said. “We are thrilled for her.”

Gray was able to ride Repeat Fine Footwork after her original horse was injured the day before the championship.

“She had to do it on a borrowed horse which speaks volumes of her abilities,” Major said. “I’m sure her experiences in college riding different horses benefited her a lot. I can’t think of a anyone more deserving or who has worked harder.”

Gray had a successful 2009-2010 season as a junior, highlighted by a 4-0 record at the 2010 Varsity Equestrian Championships in Waco, TX. Gray’s performance helped the Gamecocks secure a third-place finish in the Western bracket, as well as third-place overall.

Gray will be a team captain for the upcoming school year, along with sophomore Alex Arute.