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Georgia Equestrian Team Dominates SEC Awards

The No. 5 Georgia equestrian team received significant recognition in the form of SEC postseason awards, with three Bulldogs clinching prestigious titles and a total of eight athletes being honored by the Southeastern Conference.

Junior Jillian Stopperich made history by becoming the SEC Horsemanship Rider of the Year, marking the first time a Bulldog has received this accolade since 2016. Additionally, Tessa Downey and Cadence Eger secured the titles of SEC Fences and Reining Riders of the Year, respectively.

Stopperich’s outstanding performance included an impressive 12-2 overall record and an undefeated streak against SEC opponents during the regular season, earning her the coveted title of SEC Horsemanship Rider of the Year. Hailing from Venetia, Pa., Stopperich also clinched NCEA First Team All-America honors, boasting a remarkable average score of 74.7. Notably, her score of 77.5 against Texas A&M stood out as one of the highest among SEC riders this season, further solidifying her position as a standout athlete. Downey, a freshman from Houston, demonstrated remarkable skill in her inaugural season, earning the title of Freshman Fences of the Year. With a commendable 6-2-1 overall record and notable victories at the SEC Championship, Downey showcased her talent with scores of 85 or better, including an impressive 88 against Auburn.

Eger, another freshman standout from Marysville, Ohio, was recognized as the Freshman Reining Rider of the Year. Competing in five meets this season, including three against SEC opponents, Eger’s consistent performance earned her the distinction. Both Downey and Eger were also named to the SEC All-Freshman teams in their respective events.

Additionally, five more Bulldogs received All-SEC accolades, further highlighting the team’s depth and talent. Catalina Peralta, a native of Geneva, Fla., excelled in both Fences and Flat events, securing a spot on the All-SEC teams for her exceptional performances. Notably, Peralta’s impressive record, including five MOP honors, earned her recognition on the NCEA All-America First Team for Fences. Jordan Toering, from Waterford, Va., impressed with her exceptional performance in the Flat event, earning her second All-SEC Flat honor and a spot on the NCEA All-America First Team.

Sophomores Shelby Lynch and Raegan Shepherd, along with senior Hannah Jane Lucas, showcased their talent in the Reining event, earning spots on the All-SEC Reining Team.

With their outstanding achievements, the Bulldogs are primed for success as they enter the NCEA National Championship as the fifth seed. Set to take place from April 18-20 at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida, the Bulldogs will face off against Texas A&M in the first round on Thursday, April 18 at 8:30 a.m.