Texas A&M
Baylor
Aggie Riders Down No. 7 Baylor, 9-8
Feb 13, 2010 | Equestrian
Feb. 13, 2010
WACO, Texas - The third-ranked Texas A&M equestrian team used a strong performance from its horsemanship riders to post a 9-8 win over No. 7 Baylor at the Willis Family Equestrian Center.
The Bears (6-5) held a four-point advantage halfway through the day, but the A&M horsemanship squad rallied to post its second shutout of the season and give A&M (7-4) the lead for the first time on the day. The team won all five rides in impressive fashion, besting the Baylor horsemanship team by a convincing 25 points.
Senior Caroline Gunn (9-1) picked up her third MVP honor of the year and 19th of her career following a 76.5-73 win over Chelsey Retmier. Katie Lisabeth, Kelsey Adams, Carey Nowacek and Randi Standley completed the sweep.
"Our girls won by a total of 25 points, which is a huge victory," horsemanship coach Beth Bass said. "It was obviously an all-around team effort today. I'm very proud of the girls and this victory and performance will help carry them into what will be a very difficult home stretch."
The Aggie reiners then closed out the overall team victory by picking up a pair of wins. Senior Maggie Gratny (8-1-1) paced the team, tying her own school record with her fourth consecutive MVP award thanks to a 69.5-0 victory over Valtie Riddle. Sophomore Abigail Grabein accounted for the other point.
"We were extremely happy to come away with a win on the road," head coach Tana McKay said. "It's always hard when you're riding unfamiliar horses in a different venue, but I was very pleased with the way the girls were able to make the adjustments and produce some good rides. We are excited to head back home and face a tough Kansas State squad on Friday."
Sophomore Brittney Dodson posted a 73-65 win over Mary Smitson on the flat.
The Aggies return to action and open a three-show homestand on Friday when they host Kansas State at the Brazos County Expo Complex. The show will begin at 11 a.m. and admission is free.
Players Mentioned
