Oct. 25, 2007

BLYTHEWOOD, S.C. – The 2006-07 national championships South Carolina equestrian team received their rings Wednesday night in a surprise dinner ceremony put on by coaches Boo Duncan and Ruth Sorrel.

Senior Woman Administrator Val Sheley presented the rings to the team at Longhorn Steakhouse to congratulate the team for winning its second overall national championship in three years. The Hunter Seat team went undefeated last season (15-0) to win its third consecutive national title while the Western team won the reserve title with a championship round appearance despite entering the tournament as the No. 7 seed.

“We told the team that we were going to have a long meeting and they all needed to show up,” Duncan said of the surprise. “We made up about 5,000 lies and got them hook, line and sinker. The girls were very excited when they got there and were presented with the rings.”

Each member of the 2006-07 team received her ring along with Scott and Katie Peterson, previous owners of One Wood Farm where South Carolina participates in their home meets.

“We gave rings to Scott and Katie to show our appreciation for their commitment to the team,” Duncan said. “We appreciate them allowing us to use the farm for the last three years and the donation that allowed us to purchase the farm this year.”

Also in attendance was Molly Hankinson, administrative assistant, and Director of Administrative Operations Katherine Brown.