Nov. 16, 2006

WACO, Texas - Equestrian head coach Ellen White announced Thursday the first signee of the program's 2007-08 class. Lauren Purkey of Bothell, Wash., signed a National Letter of Intent, committing her to Baylor beginning next fall.

Purkey boasts fives years of full training in English-Hunters/Jumpers/Equitation and competes at the 3-6" - 3'9" level. Among awards and honors, Purkey currently ranks third in Zone 9 for Children's Jumpers and leads Washington in hunt seat equitation.

Last year Purkey finished as the Pre-Children's Jumpers' Reserve Champion. In 2004, Purkey tallied a two championships, two reserve championships, and a two third-place finishes at various events. She has also qualified twice for the Capital Challenge (Nationals).

Additionally, Purkey claimed a championship finish at 16-17 Equitation (Hits, Ariz.), Children's Jumpers (Spring Nationals) and Junior 16-17 Equitation on the Flat. She also earned a second-place Maclay Medal and second-place USEF medal.

Once at Baylor, Purkey plans to study marketing and communications.