For the second consecutive year, the College of Charleston Equestrian team has a national champion, as freshman Kenzie Russell rode to victory at the 2011 IHSA National Championship Horse Show at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington on Thursday.

College of Charleston Head Coach Bob Story said he was very proud of Russell.

“Kenzie had the perfect draw and the perfect ride,” he said. “She had flawless ring management as well, and we are all very excited for her.”

Russell won the Individual Walk Trot Canter class and was awarded the perpetual John Conyers Memorial Trophy.

Junior McKenzie Armour, who won a national championship for the Cougars, last year, also competed at the national horse show. Armour finished 11th in Individual Novice Fences and sixth in Individual Intermediate Flat.