Equestrian history was rewritten this weekend at the Ronald C. Waranch Equestrian Center as the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) delivered a performance for the ages, securing the first perfect score in the 35-year history of the Tournament of Champions (TOC).
In an event nearly derailed by a significant snowstorm, the resilience of the SCAD program was on full display. Once the gates finally opened for the rescheduled Winter Tournament, the defending Series Champions fielded two elite squads—Team BEE-Lieve and Team BEE Strong—who proceeded to dismantle the national field.
In a remarkable display of depth, both SCAD teams finished the day with a perfect total of 50 points. The achievement was so unprecedented it required five levels of tie-breakers to separate them.
Ultimately, Team BEE-Lieve was crowned Champions, while Team BEE Strong took the Reserve title—marking the first time in three decades that two teams from the same school have locked out the top spots with perfect scores.
Bermudian senior Kayla Bardgett was instrumental in the historic result. Anchoring Team BEE Strong, Bardgett showcased the technical precision that has defined her 2025/26 season.
Bardgett’s Individual Haul:
- Open Over Fences: 1st Place
- Open Flat: 1st Place
- TOC High Medal: Reserve Champion (2nd Place)
The High Medal class was the day’s marquee event. After navigating a crowded flat phase, Bardgett was called back as one of the top eight riders for the decisive jumping round. Her clinical performance over the hurdles secured her the Reserve Champion ribbon and cemented her status as one of the most consistent point-scorers in the collegiate circuit.
