Gamecocks Equestrian Team Defeats #1 Georgia in Back-to-Back Weekends

South Carolina's No. 5 equestrian team takes down the top-ranked Georgia Bulldogs 16-3 at home.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The No. 5 South Carolina Equestrian team defeated the No. 1 Georgia Bulldogs 16-3 on Saturday, marking the first time in program history that the Gamecocks have beaten the top-ranked team in back-to-back competitions. South Carolina swept the Most Outstanding Performer (MOP) honors and remained undefeated at home.

Why it matters

This victory is a significant accomplishment for the South Carolina equestrian team, as they have historically struggled against the powerhouse Georgia program. Defeating the No. 1 team in consecutive weekends demonstrates the Gamecocks' growth and ability to compete at the highest level of collegiate equestrian.

The details

The Gamecocks started the day strong, defeating Georgia 4-1 in Horsemanship. They then won Fences 4-1 to take an 8-2 lead at halftime. In Reining, South Carolina swept the points 4-0 for the first time since 2022 against the Bulldogs. The day wrapped up with a 4-1 win in Flat, giving the Gamecocks a final score of 16-3.

  • The competition took place on Saturday, February 15, 2026.

The players

Carol Gwin

The head coach of the South Carolina Equestrian team.

Alyssa Jipping

A South Carolina equestrian rider who scored a 75.25 in Horsemanship.

Carly Jenkins

A South Carolina equestrian rider who scored a 76.5 in Horsemanship.

Alexis Potts

A South Carolina equestrian rider who earned her fourth MOP of the season for her ride in Horsemanship.

Natalie Jayne

A South Carolina equestrian rider who scored an 86.5 in Fences and won her third MOP honors of the season.

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What they’re saying

“This was a huge victory for this team. They've been working very hard this year, and I think the results showed today. A huge shoutout to our consistent performers, but also to some new faces in the lineup who are starting to produce points as well!”

— Carol Gwin, Head Coach (Gamecocks Athletics)

What’s next

The Gamecocks will host Delaware State on Friday, March 6, and North Dakota State University on Saturday, March 7.

The takeaway

The South Carolina Equestrian team's historic back-to-back victories over the top-ranked Georgia Bulldogs demonstrate the program's growth and ability to compete at the highest level of collegiate equestrian. This win will undoubtedly boost the team's confidence and momentum as they continue their season.