The College of Charleston equestrian team advanced to the National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA) National Championship finals after defeating Dartmouth, 7-3, in the semifinals on April 17 at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida.
This victory allows Charleston, seeded third, to move forward and compete against top-seeded Lynchburg for the national title. The win also marks the second consecutive year that Charleston has reached the championship match by overcoming a higher-seeded opponent with a score of 7-3. In last year’s semifinals, Charleston defeated Sweet Briar as a three seed.
During Friday’s meet, Charleston secured all four points in fences. Olivia Welsh posted a meet-best score of 85.7 in this category while Samantha Aisenberg (84.0), Camilla Murray (79.0), and Maddi Cardelli (73.7) each contributed points during the first half of competition.
The team continued its strong performance by earning three additional points in flat events. Aisenberg scored an 83.0, Lainie Rubin achieved an 81.3, and Welsh added another point with a score of 72.
Charleston is competing in only its second season within the NCEA but will again have an opportunity to secure its first national championship when it faces Lynchburg at 9 a.m. on April 18.
