Kayla Bardgett has helped the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) equestrian team reach a historic milestone, securing their 16th consecutive Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) Regional Championship title in dominant fashion.
Competing in the largest region in the United States—an area featuring 13 schools and a constantly expanding field of competitors—SCAD delivered a clinical season-long performance. The team finished with an overall score of 433 points, establishing a staggering 110-point lead over their nearest rivals. The margin represents the largest championship lead in the school's storied history.
In her senior year, Bardgett proved to be a cornerstone of the SCAD lineup. Her consistent form throughout the regional shows earned her the prestigious Reserve Regional Champion title, further cementing her status as one of the region's elite riders.
The conclusion of the season also saw the announcement of the overall High Point Riders. In this highly competitive Open division, where the top-ranked rider advances directly to the Zone Championship to vie for a spot in the Cacchione Cup at the IHSA National Finals, Bardgett secured a top-ten finish, ending the year ranked 9th in the region.
Reflecting on the achievement and the end of her regional campaign, Bardgett was quick to credit the support system behind her success.
"I am still trying to find the words to describe all the emotions," Bardgett said. "I’m incredibly thankful for my coaches and teammates who have helped me get this far and continue to push me to be better every single day. Endless love for you all."
The focus for SCAD now shifts to the upcoming Zone Championships, where the team will look to translate their regional dominance into a path toward the National Finals.
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