South Carolina Moves on to NCEA Semifinals with Win Over SMU
OCALA, FL – The fourth-seeded Gamecock Equestrian team secured a victory over fifth-seeded SMU 11-8 on Thursday to move on to the NCEA Semifinals for the second consecutive year.
“I feel like we started the day really well with the Jumping Seat squad kicking things off with a 4-1 win, followed by our Reiners tying a really strong SMU team,” head coach Carol Gwin said. “It was great to see Flat and Horsemanship close the deal. I’m always looking for contributions from all four sides, and it all came together today!”
The day started strong with a 4-1 win in Fences in favor of the Gamecocks. Amira Kettaneh got things rolling with an 86-79 win on Oliver, while Natalie Jayne followed suit with an 89.3-77 victory on Bentley. Bella Primavera then tied her season-high of 87 on Junior to take down a 76.3, and Grace Rabb edged out Hannah Hoch on Lou 82-81.3 to round out the event.
Over in Reining, SEC All-Freshman selection Emily Patton picked up the first point with a 69-68 win on Bullet. Senior Mattie McNeill secured the second point for the Gamecocks 70.3-68.2, and Opal Fomish tied with Sara Beth Filliatreau on Shorty with a 69.2 to make things 6-3 at the half.
The second half opened on the Flat, where South Carolina took things 3-2. Vanessa McCaughley picked up her point with an 80.3-75 win on Caviar, while Natalie Jayne (87.7-84.3 on Ethon) and Amira Kettaneh (86-81.3 on Caleb) each went undefeated on the day in Jumping Seat after earning their points.
Horsemanship concluded the day, with the Mustangs winning that battle 3-2. Despite the event loss, NCEA Horsemanship Rider of the Year Alexis Potts’ second half opening 77 clinched the meet for the Gamecocks, taking down a 75.5. on Bob. Carly Jenkins then concluded points for South Carolina, also picking up an impressive 77 on Shrek to defeat a 76.3.
UP NEXT
The Gamecocks will take on top-seeded Auburn for an SEC matchup on Friday, April 17, beginning at 9:00 a.m. The event will be streamed live on ESPN+.
