Despite winning in the English disciplines, the Georgia Equestrian team was stopped short by Texas Christian in an 11-9 loss in the Bulldogs’ 2009-10 season opener at the soggy UGA Equestrian Complex here Saturday afternoon.

The loss was Georgia’s first defeat ever at home in six years of competition in the dual-match format.

“We are disappointed to lose our home opener, but we have to give credit to TCU because they came right in and went to work,” said Georgia assistant coach Logan Fiorentino. “This loss will serve as motivation for how we don’t want to feel and will hopefully light the fire for the rest of the season. We are looking forward to picking up some ground tomorrow against SMU because I know what we’re capable of.”

Georgia took a slim 3-2 lead in Equitation over Fences with winning rides coming from Kacy Jenkins, Michelle Morris, and Emma Lipman, who also garnered the MVP on the event.

The English competitors continued to post winning rides in Equitation on the Flat with Daisy Whelan, Lipman, and Morris notching points for the Bulldogs. Morris was also named MVP.

“The Hunt Seat riders did very well today,” said Fiorentino, pinch-hitting for head coach Meghan Boenig, who is away on maternity leave. “We had two MVPs and led 6-4. Kacy Jenkins is an outstanding leader and Emma Lipman kept the momentum going from the national championships.”

The Horned Frogs began to close the gap in Horsemanship, taking the event 4-1. Alicia Shrum scored a 76 and got the lone win for Georgia. With TCU leading by one going into the last event, the Bulldogs were not able to overcome the deficit in Reining. Kelly Truesdell and freshman Becca Haaland posted the Bulldogs’ two winning rides in the event.

The Bulldogs return to the competition ring Sunday against SMU at 12 noon at the Equestrian Complex. The meet will feature Hunt Seat events only.

- Georgia Sports Communications