Blythewood, S.C. -- University of Lynchburg's National Collegiate Equestrian Association team opened up the 2021 season Friday with a 9-1 loss at No. 3-ranked South Carolina.

Despite the defeat, Lynchburg's 660 team points marked a new program best.

The Hornets' lone point came over fences as freshman Jacqi Needle completed a 77-point ride atop Joe, besting the Gamecocks' Kit Cunningham, who was judged at 71 points.

Sophomore Lori Ohannessian had a pair of good showings for the Hornets (0-1), scoring 82 points over fences on Redford and 66 points on the flat atop Tattoo, both team-best rides.

Lynchburg's NCEA team will be return to action Saturday, March 6 at No. 1 Auburn. The Hornets will also ride against Sweet Briar that day.

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--LYN--