Gamecocks Defeat No. 1 Georgia Twice in a Row

South Carolina equestrian team makes history with back-to-back wins over top-ranked opponent

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The South Carolina Equestrian team has made history by defeating the No. 1 ranked Georgia Bulldogs in consecutive weekends, ending a seven-meet losing streak against their SEC rival. The Gamecocks' dominant 16-3 victory, fueled by sweeping MOP honors and a record-breaking point total, signals a potential shift in the landscape of collegiate equestrian competition.

Why it matters

This achievement marks the first time in program history that the Gamecocks have defeated top-ranked teams consecutively, showcasing the team's depth, versatility, and the impact of head coach Carol Gwin's leadership. The success reflects broader trends in the sport, including increased investment, coaching, and rider development, as well as the growing popularity and reach of equestrian events.

The details

The Gamecocks secured decisive wins across multiple disciplines, including Horsemanship (4-1), Fences (4-1), Reining (4-0), and Flat (4-1). This balanced success highlights the team's depth and versatility, with multiple riders earning MOP honors. The Reining sweep, the first against Georgia since 2022, is particularly noteworthy, demonstrating significant improvement in a traditionally challenging area.

  • The South Carolina Equestrian team defeated No. 1 Georgia on February 8, 2026.
  • The Gamecocks defeated Georgia again on February 15, 2026.

The players

Carol Gwin

Head Coach of the South Carolina Equestrian team, who returned to the program after a highly successful decade at SMU, where she led the Mustangs to back-to-back national championships in 2023 and 2024.

Alexis Potts

South Carolina rider who earned MOP honors in Horsemanship.

Natalie Jayne

South Carolina rider who earned MOP honors in Fences.

Gracie Mae Stingle

South Carolina rider who earned MOP honors in Reining.

Kettaneh

South Carolina rider who earned MOP honors in Flat.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Gamecocks face Delaware State and NDSU in their upcoming matches, offering opportunities to build on their recent success and refine their strategies as they prepare for the challenges of the SEC and national championships.

The takeaway

The South Carolina Equestrian team's historic back-to-back victories over the No. 1 Georgia Bulldogs showcase the program's depth, versatility, and the transformative impact of head coach Carol Gwin's leadership. This achievement reflects broader trends in the sport, including increased investment, coaching, and rider development, as well as the growing popularity and reach of equestrian events.