The Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) regular season burst into action, with the University of Florida hosting the first regional competition. Despite fluctuating rain showers, the challenging conditions did little to dampen the spirits of the 12 schools vying for the top spot.
In a thrilling day of collegiate equestrian sport, it was Kayla Bardgett and her Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) Equestrian teammates securing a dominant opening win, setting an early marker for the season ahead.
SCAD navigated the difficult weather and tough competition with composure, ultimately being crowned the Champion with a commanding 45 points. Their total placed them eight points clear of the field.
Florida State University (FSU) rode a strong competition to earn the title of Reserve Champion with 37 points, highlighting the tightly contested nature of the region.
The victory marks SCAD's first IHSA win of the new season, a result that will provide a significant confidence boost as the team prepares for the rest of the calendar.
Senior Bardgett was a key rider for SCAD, Bardgett maintained her consistency in the challenging Open Flat Class, finishing the event in a respectable third place.
The Open Flat Class is considered one of the most demanding events, featuring the most experienced collegiate riders, and Bardgett’s top-three finish contributed crucial points toward SCAD’s overall victory.
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