Nov. 6, 2005

STILLWATER, Okla. - After a tough first day of competition at the Oklahoma State-hosted IHSA Western show, Baylor's riders built on day one's exposure, rode stronger, and placed higher as a team. This tournament is the program's second official show, first official Western show.

Nicole McCoy placed first in her class in the novice field while Kendra Kemp also bested her competitors in her Reining class. Also in the novice class, Kim Crook placed fifth as did Kim Marlowe. Kemp's teammates Ashleigh Brown and Brenna Burris placed sixth and fourth in their Reining group while Amanda Esco finished fifth in her class.

In the first open group, Ashleigh Brown finished third while Brenna Burris placed fifth in her open class. Kendra Kemp was slotted fifth in her open class. Finally, in the advanced class, Stephanie Thompson placed fifth.

Overall, Texas A&M placed first in the Western show while OSU was the reserve team (second place). Baylor was not considered as a complete team in their performance since riders were not entered into each category offered.

"The girls really improved since yesterday. They learned a lot during their first day and really implemented those lessons today. They showed so much improvement and we got some wins," said assistant coach Trista Armstrong.

Baylor's equestrian team returns to action next weekend at the Texas A&M English IHSA show in College Station on Nov. 12-13.