WACO, Texas - The South Dakota State equestrian team opened the season on Friday with a 10-5 loss to Baylor at the Willis Invitational, despite a pair of MVP performances by Jackrabbit riders.
"There were outstanding rides laid down in both disciplines today, and I'm excited about how well the team is riding," head coach Megan Rossiter said. "It's tough to beat a team at their house, but we are proud of how the team performed."
Megan Violand scored the Jacks lone point in equitation over fences with an 83, earning MVP honors in the process. Victoria Pecak and Lauren Kerr both earned points for SDSU in equitation on the flat, leaving the host Bears with a 5-3 lead after the hunt seat events.
On the Western side, Maggie Holzworth tied her opponent in horsemanship and earned MVP honors, but did not get a point. Jana Basler posted the highest score among all eight reining riders with a 74.5 and did win one of the two SDSU reining points, but she did not win the MVP. Helen Lauth picked up the other SDSU reining point.
The Jackrabbits return to action at the Willis Invitational on Saturday in head-to-head action against Fresno State at 9 a.m., followed by a hunt seat only show against Miami (Ohio).
