Boyd's Response to the Chronicle Forums

Dear Readers:

There has been an outpouring of both criticism of and support for Boyd's October 6 blog post, "Reflections on My First WEG Experience". Most of this has taken place on the Chronicle of the Horse Forum, where Boyd responded to his critics with the post that you find below. Also, here is a link to the page on the forum where Boyd's response appears: http://www.chronofhorse.com/forum/showthread.php?t=275794&page=9

Boyd and I discussed whether to post his original blog entry, and he was clear that he did not want to sugar coat his thoughts and feelings. While not everyone agrees with what Boyd has to say, it cannot be denied that his comments have opened a very candid discussion, which is the first step to making any positive changes in our sport. Three-day eventing is constantly evolving, and it is the passionate response of its supporters and open lines of communication with riders at all levels, from grassroots competitors to Olympians, that will keep the sport and its athletes adapting and thriving. Many thanks to all of Boyd's outspoken supporters, and let's hope that something worthwhile results from all of this discussion.

-Amber Heintzberger

Oct. 7, 2010, 05:46 PM
Boyd Martin
Greenie

Join Date: Oct. 7, 2010
Posts: 1
Let's Clear a few things up....
Hey Guys.... I thought I might make a quick post to clear a few things up.

Before I start, maybe check out my blog on my website: boydandsilvamartin.com and read my last entry. I think it's worth reading the complete letter to get a full understanding on what message I am trying to get across....

The message was basically a big thank you to everyone who has helped me get to the WEG.... including my loving wife Silva, who took care of paying all our bills while I was unable to earn anything while training at Wellington, Virginia, Atlanta and Kentucky with team training sessions trying to get the best performance out of Neville for last week at the WEG. Without her working around the clock, earning money to pay for my training time, I would not of been able to do what I did. I felt she deserved a thanks.

The other point I want to make is that I was born an American, with a US passport in Australia. I have been paying taxes here in the US for the last 30 years. The reason I changed to be a US rider was I wanted to support the country and the system that I am benefiting from. I want to give back to this country and this system.

The thing that everyone is upset about is the opinion I gave regarding sending green, unproven 3 star combinations to Europe. We're talking $50,000 spent not only on 4 horses and riders, but airfares, accommodation, rental cars and high end restaurants for the managers, coaches and entourage that also chop into this fund. I feel that this $50,000 could benefit 15 developing riders attending a camp with Captain Mark Phillips prior to Fair Hill CCI 3 star or Galway Downs CCI 3 star. At the same time, we'd also be supporting top level American events and a lot more riders for the future.

The highest placed US horse at the WEG was Neville who was produced thanks to two 3 stars runs at Fair Hill. Neville and I have never competed in Europe, but still was rank the 10th at the WEG.

I absolutely hope that the guys heading to their 3 star next week do fantastic. Nothing would make me happier than seeing American glory at Boekelo. I would call Doug and Will two of my closest mates and I hope they clean up. Make no mistake, I am an American patriot who is voicing his opinion on what he hopes will make a medal-winning performance in 2 years time.

I think this is a healthy forum to throw out ideas of a better way of doing things. I feel very strongly that we can produce top 3 star performances here in our backyard and when it's time to abuse our limited traveling budget it should be used on 4 stars horses capable of a top 10 finish. We can get more bang for our buck and help a larger pool of riders by keeping the developing riders program here in the US.

This is my opinion and you are very entitled to disagree with it. To all the haters out there, at least try not to hide behind a fake name like Snoopy....

Thanks for reading.

Boyd