Boyd Martin is gearing up for his fourth Olympic appearance, representing the United States in the upcoming Paris Games. With a notable track record that includes his current third rank in the world, Martin brings a wealth of experience and skill to the team. Despite his individual best finish at 16th in previous Olympics, his consistent presence at the top of the global rankings underscores his prowess in the sport.

Martin’s journey to Olympic success is marked by determination and cross-cultural ties. Originally hailing from Australia, he pursued Olympic dreams in his home country in the early 2000s. Since joining the U.S. equestrian team in 2009, Martin has become a stalwart competitor, clinching victories such as two-time Pan American Games team gold and an individual gold. Behind his achievements lies a supportive foundation—his parents, both athletes themselves, have been pillars of encouragement since his childhood, instilling in him the drive and passion that have propelled him to Olympic greatness.

All about Boyd Martin’s athlete dad and mom

Boyd Martin comes from a family deeply rooted in sports greatness. His parents, Toy Dorgan and Ross Martin, both competed in the Olympics–Toy in speed skating for the US team in 1968, and Ross in cross-country skiing for Australia. Growing up near Sydney, Australia, Boyd and his sister Brook were immersed in a world of sports and adventure, inspired by their parents’ impressive athletic achievements. Boyd, born in 1979, excelled in eventing in Sydney before eventually relocating to the United States in 2007 to further pursue his passion for riding.

Following in his family’s footsteps, Boyd’s journey into professional eventing began with a win at the 2003 Australian International Three-Day Event, marking his debut at the CCI5*-L level. However, it was his relocation to the United States in 2007 that marked a pivotal turn in his career. Initially serving as assistant trainer to Olympian Phillip Dutton, Boyd soon forged his own path in the equestrian world, establishing his own training business. In 2009, he made the significant decision to ride for the U.S. equestrian team, a move that would ultimately shape his Olympic aspirations and solidify his standing as one of the sport’s elite competitors. But his journey in equestrian started with his parents’ encouragement and guidance.

The equestrian’s parents immensely encouraged every sport

As a youngster, Boyd Martin’s parents played a crucial role in nurturing his love for riding. Every Sunday, they dedicated their time to driving him to Pony Club, despite the long hours of travel involved. While they might not have been horse experts themselves, their support was evident as they watched him pursue his passion. When he needed a new horse after outgrowing his first pony, Willy, his parents stepped in to help him find Flying Doctor, a chestnut Thoroughbred with untapped potential in eventing.

Despite the initial mishaps during the test ride, they recognized the horse’s promise and encouraged him to pursue the partnership. As he puts it, “The first guy who gave me a horse to ride had just gotten out of maximum-security prison for attempted murder. We always went to the farm via the police station because he had to sign in every day. But when you’re starting out, you grab whatever horse comes your way.”

Unlike many parents who prioritize academic success, they respected his passion for sports and never pressured him to consider university. Instead, they stood by his decision to focus on riding, even if it meant unconventional choices like moving into a bunkhouse at a young age to pursue his dreams. Through the highs and lows of his riding journey, from challenging competitions to daunting injuries, his parents remained his steadfast pillars of support.