ATHENS – The top-ranked University of Georgia equestrian team will host No. 8 Baylor in the season’s opener Friday at 2 p.m. at the UGA Equestrian Complex.

The Bulldogs defeated top-ranked SMU, 12-8, in the NCEA National Championship to bring home their eighth title. Junior Tessa Downey secured the victory with a score of 90 in Fences. Senior Tessa Brown was named an NCEA All-American in Fences and earned All-SEC honors as well. Sophomore Emma DeJong garnered All-Freshman honors in Horsemanship. The Bulldogs launched into the record books with seven different riders sneaking into top-10 lists.

Georgia leads the all-time series against the Bears, 13-4, including a 5-0 record at home. The last time the two met in the 2023-24 season, the Bears defeated the Bulldogs, 11-8, in Waco.

The Bulldogs hosted their annual Red and Black Scrimmage on September 20 ahead of opening the season, while Baylor kicked off the season with their Green and Gold Scrimmage on the 19th.

The first 100 fans will receive a 2025 NCEA National Championship shirt. Georgia Equestrian will recognize its alumni and 2025 national championship team at halftime.

Admission is free.

HOW TO FOLLOW GEORGIA EQUESTRIAN: For complete information on Georgia equestrian, follow the team on its social media channels via @UGAEquestrian on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

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