Bermudian equestrian Kayla Bardgett helped rewrite the history books this weekend as the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) were crowned the 2025-26 Tournament of Champions Series winners.
The victory marks SCAD’s first national title of the season and comes during a landmark 35th-anniversary year for the collegiate series. The "Bees" established their dominance early, claiming victory in three of the four major shows across the season to secure the overall series trophy with a record-breaking performance.
For Bardgett, a senior who has been a cornerstone of the SCAD program, the triumph was the culmination of a historic individual campaign. Earlier this year, she was instrumental in the team achieving the first-ever perfect score in the tournament’s three-decade history.
Following the final trophy presentation, an emotional Bardgett took to social media to reflect on the conclusion of her collegiate chapter and her partnership with her horse, Bettina.
"What an incredible way to close out my final time competing at such a challenging, yet unforgettable competition," Bardgett wrote. "Bettina, you gave me absolutely everything and more. I truly couldn’t have asked for a better partner to finish this chapter with. You showed up with so much heart, strength, and fight."
Bardgett was quick to credit the support system that has carried her through her three years at the Savannah-based institution, specifically highlighting coaches Ashley Henry and Sammy Perlman.
"Ashley and Sammy, thank you for the heart you put into me every single day," she added. "For all the behind-the-scenes work, the constant support, and the trust you’ve always had in me, even when I couldn’t find it in myself. I am so incredibly grateful for everything you’ve given me."
The victory in the Tournament of Champions series sets a high bar for the remainder of the postseason. With the IHSA Zone 5 Championship already under their belt, Bardgett and her teammates now turn their attention to the IHSA National Championships, where they will look to add further silverware to a season that has already secured its place in the SCAD history books.
"This team, these people, and these horses have given me more than I could ever put into words," Bardgett concluded. "Saying goodbye to this chapter is so bittersweet, but I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect ending."
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