In an exhilarating showdown at the Willis Family Equestrian Center, the Baylor equestrian team pulled off a thrilling upset against No. 7 TCU, securing an 11-8 victory. The Bears, now 2-7 on the season, showed their prowess in both Flat and Horsemanship events, with standout performances from senior Lauren Jorgensen and junior Carley Rutledge.
The Breakdown
The Bears started strong in the indoor arena. Lauren Reid set the tone with an impressive score of 83, marking her sixth win of the season. Jorgensen, earning Most Outstanding Performer (MOP) honors, dazzled with an 86, while Morgan McCarthy added to the momentum with a 70.5, leading to a 3-2 event win.
In Reining, Kalena Reynolds matched her career high of 73.5, though it resulted in a draw. Teammates Sadie Peters and Britt McIlnay achieved career highs with scores of 72 and 72.5, respectively, leading to a 2-2 tie in the event.
By halftime, Baylor held a slim 5-4 lead, setting the stage for a competitive second half in Fences and Horsemanship.
After the break, McCarthy continued her strong performance, edging out her opponent 79-75.5 in Flat. Jorgensen, once again named MOP, clinched a point with an 83.5, though TCU managed to take the event 3-2.
The Bears truly shone in Horsemanship, securing their first event win of the season with a decisive 4-1 score. Anna Thron, Rutledge, Taylor Smith, and Addisyn Albers each contributed crucial points, with Rutledge achieving a career-high score of 77.5.
Noteworthy Performances
- Flat secured its fourth event win of the season with a 3-2 score.
- Horsemanship claimed its first event win, thanks in part to Rutledge’s standout performance.
- Rutledge not only earned her first career MOP but also set a personal best.
- Freshman Lila Badham made her collegiate debut, scoring a career-high 64.
- Jorgensen tied her season-high score in Flat and earned her second MOP honors in both Flat and Fences.
- Reining saw career highs from McIlnay, Reynolds, and Peters.
Highlight of the Meet
Rutledge's career-high 77.5 in Horsemanship was a pivotal moment, earning her both her first career point and MOP recognition.
Quotes from the Team
Head Coach Casie Maxwell expressed immense pride in the team's performance, emphasizing the importance of all four events coming together. She highlighted the Horsemanship team's hard work and its crucial role in sealing the victory.
Junior Carley Rutledge described her first career point and MOP as an amazing and rewarding experience, reflecting the team's collective effort and determination.
Senior Lauren Jorgensen, celebrating her double MOP honors, shared her excitement about contributing to the victory in her last home meet.
Looking Ahead
The Bears will take a brief break before heading to Fresno, California, to face UT Martin and No. 8 Fresno State in early March. These matches will be crucial as they wrap up the regular season.