April 18, 2013

WACO, Texas (SMU) - The No. 6-seeded SMU equestrian team dominated No. 11 New Mexico State in the first round of the National Collegiate Equestrian Championship on Thursday at the Extraco Events Center. The overall score was 6-2 with a raw score of 1189-1113.

"The girls performed at a top level today," said head coach Haley Schoolfield. "I am so proud of them and fully expect to see just as great performances in the second round."

The Mustangs began the competition by shutting out New Mexico State 4-0 in equitation over fences, taking the raw score 656-568. Sophomore Courtney Line had a great ride, defeating her opponent 173-150. Freshman Schaefer Raposa also scored 173 points to take the victory from New Mexico State's Laura Bostwick (157). Sophomore Emma Roberts and rookie Alex Butterworth also earned points for the Mustangs with their respective 168-151 and 142-110 wins.

SMU split with New Mexico State in equitation on the flat, 2-2, but was ultimately edged in the flat competition with a raw score of 545-533. Freshman Mary Abbruzzese defeated Laura Bostwick 145-134 to earn a point for the Mustangs. Junior Julianna Fischer earned the other team point with a dominant 148-126 victory over Amber Tassel.

The Mustangs compete against No. 3 Georgia at 9 a.m. on April 19 in the second round of the national championship in Waco, Texas. The event will be broadcast live and can be watched by clicking here.