Paris Olympics: US Gold Hope Equestrian Boyd Martin’s 2008 Nationality Switch Had a Deep-Rooted Reason Behind It

Did you know Boyd Martin is originally not from the US? Born to Ross Martin and Toy Dorgan in Australia, he switched his nationality and kept gifting the United States with precious equestrian achievements that made him a force to be reckoned with. But why would anyone want to change his motherland? Well, it seems Boyd had a special reason to do so. 

Boyd Martin finds his roots in the US

Boyd Martin initially attempted to qualify for the Olympics in 2000,2004, and 2008 for Australia. But since the London Olympics, he has been an American. The athlete, along with his wife, Silva, moved to the US in 2007. After residing there for a couple of years, the duo decided to permanently stay back in America. But Boyd’s decision to change his nationality did not come out of the blue. As a matter of fact, his mother, Toy Dorgan, was of American origin and also represented the US in speed skating. 

Thus, in order to pay tribute to his mother, Boyd took up the decision to represent his true motherland. Reflecting on the same, he told the USEA, “In a sense I’ve already got a family tie to American representation because my mum represented the U.S. in the 1968 Winter Olympics in speed skating… Since I’ve been an American citizen for the past 15 years it was just a case of changing my nationality as a rider, but it’s still a big deal.” 

Boyd also mentioned that his idea was met with great support and enthusiasm by his parents. Terming it as a “great idea”, they urged him to take the leap of faith. Boyd’s wife, Silva, who is German by birth also supported her husband and decided to relocate to the United States permanently. And surely, it has been a joyride for Boyd since then. Especially this year, when he looked quite impressive on his road to Paris. 

Martin’s road to Paris Olympics

Boyd Martin has been named in the three-man equestrian squad that will represent the US in Paris. Currently ranked number 2 in the world, Boyd will be looking to make it big with his companion, Fedarman B. And there are ample reasons for it. Conditioned by Stephanie Simpson, the duo of Fedarman and Boyd achieved some great success this year. They ended up fourth in the Kentucky Derby, fifth at the Stable View, and eighth at the Pau. 

And in doing so, became the highest-ranked equestrian pair in America. Joining him in his quest to clinch the Olympic gold will be Will Coleman and Caroline Pamukcu. Thus, with things looking bright for Team USA, Boyd would definitely want to push for the ultimate glory. Whether it happens or not will be answered in the future.