University of Georgia Athletics
Georgia Riders Embark On Lone Star State Tour
October 19, 2007 | Equestrian
Georgia is a perfect 4-0 on the season thus far. Their last win was an impressive 12-0 blanking of Southern Methodist University at home last weekend. The Bulldogs are 1-0 so far in Texas this season with their 16-8 road win over the Baylor Bears.
Texas A&M, national overall runner-up and the Western champion in 2007, is 2-0 this season, having defeated Stephen F. Austin and New Mexico State. SFA, meanwhile is 1-2 thus far on the season.
"This is a big trip for us, and our girls have been very committed all week to working hard and preparing for a great weekend of competition," head coach Meghan Boenig said. "We'll be going up against the defending Western champs (A&M). They have many of their riders returning from that team and it will be a big challenge for our Western team. We're all very excited."
The Bulldogs have many connections to both Texas A&M and Stephen F. Austin. Boenig was an assistant coach at Texas A&M when she was hired to launch Georgia's equestrian program in 2001. Also, Georgia's assistant coach Lesli Bailey is a former Aggie rider and 2003 alumnus. Leigh Heusner Rush, head coach at Stephen F. Austin, was a charter member of Georgia's program, having ridden for the Bulldogs in their inaugural season in 2003.
With MVP honors already on the season, Georgia will look to Kelly Bonau and Haylie Jayne for strong rides in the English disciplines.
In the Western disciplines, Sarah Locker, Nichole Grant, and Laura Upton will be counted on for winning performances.
Georgia's travel team for this weekend's competition includes:
ENGLISH DISCLIPLINES: Michelle Blair, Kelly Bonau, Ashley Chandler, Kelley Cowperthwait, Melinda Drury, Mary Fulp, Haylie Jayne, Kacy Jenkins, Lauren Kulwicki, and Daisy Whelan
WESTERN DISCLIPLINES: Christina Grant, Nichole Grant, Sarah Locker, Kelley Mundrick, Catherine Pennington, Alicia Shrum, Diandra St. Hilaire, Kate Stewart, Lindsey Stier, Andrea Turnbull, Laura Upton, and Lana Wirsig
