No. 2 Texas A&M Downs No. 8 South Carolina, 9-8

BLYTHEWOOD, S.C. – The No. 2 Texas A&M equestrian team pulled off another thrilling victory, downing No. 8 South Carolina, 9-8, Friday at One Wood Farm.
 
With the win, the Aggies move to 3-0 (1-0 SEC), while the Gamecocks fall to 1-3 (1-2 SEC).
 
"I am really proud of the team today," head coach Tana McKay said. "It again came down to our girls in Flat, and they came through for us. They have all been mentally tough all year and have worked so well as a team. After back-to-back meets, it is nice to get a week off to gather ourselves and correct our mistakes before we host another tough team in Fresno State."
 
In the meet's first event, Equitation over Fences, Texas A&M's Caroline Dance secured the first point with an 81-77 victory over Trinity Hammerschmidt. The Aggies' Rebekah Chenelle kept her perfect season alive as she defeated Madison Sellman, 79-72, and earned Most Outstanding Player (MOP) honors.
 
In Horsemanship, A&M's Sarah Orsak tied Caroline Gute, 74.5-74.5, before the Aggies won the final three points. Alex Albright topped Alexa Thorpe, 75-73.5, before Ashley Davidson bested Madison Thiel, 76-75, and garnered MOP honors. Katie Conklin concluded the event with a 76-75 triumph over Sloan Vogt to give the Aggies a 5-4 advantage at the half.
 
Texas A&M's Caroline Boyle began Equitation on the Flat with an 81-77 victory over Louisa Brackett and was named MOP for her efforts. Chenelle followed suit, scoring a 76, bettering Hammerschmidt's 71. Dance defeated Madison Braymon, 80-0, to close out the event.
 
Ashton Dunkel logged the lone point for the Aggies in Reining, defeating Addie Cromer, 70-68.5. Kalee McCann and Courtney Yohey each earned ties.
 
The Aggies return to action Oct. 26 at the Hildebrand Equine Complex for an 11 a.m. meet against Fresno State. Admission to the meet is free.
 
To learn more about Texas A&M equestrian, log on to 12thMan.com or follow @AggieEquestrian on Twitter and Instagram.