TurnoutHQ+ Newsroom · Published March 21, 2026 · Updated September 8, 2026
Key Takeaway
Boyd Martin and Miks Master C moved into the top spot after a challenging show jumping phase on turf, highlighting the importance of grass arenas in preparing U.S. riders for international championships.
What Happened
Boyd Martin and Miks Master C took the lead at the Setters’ Run Farm Carolina International CCI4∗-S in Raeford, North Carolina, following a challenging show jumping phase on March 20, 2026. Only nine of 38 horse-and-rider pairs achieved a double-clear round over Brody Robertson’s course. Martin and "Mikki," a 14-year-old U.S.-bred Swedish Warmblood, started the day in second place after dressage and delivered a flawless jumping performance to secure first. Overnight leader Will Coleman and Diabolo dropped to third due to 0.4 time penalties, despite jumping clear. This allowed Caroline Pamukcu and HSH Blake to move into second place with their double-clear round. Heading into the final cross-country phase, Martin holds a narrow 0.8 penalty lead over Pamukcu.
Why It Matters
This year’s Carolina International introduced a significant change: moving both dressage and show jumping to a new grass field. For North American riders, who often compete on synthetic footing, this return to grass is a crucial developmental step. Martin noted that training on turf better prepares U.S. pairs for international championships and European five-star events, which commonly use grass arenas. The new footing, combined with a large VIP tent atmosphere and a high-standard track by Derek di Grazia, successfully simulated a high-pressure championship environment early in the season.
The event also marks a turning point for Martin and Miks Master C. Martin has been developing his partnership with the gelding since taking over the ride in 2024 following Liz Halliday’s injury. Their performance here indicates the pair is fully synced as they prepare for a five-star debut, with potential entries at either the Kentucky Three-Day Event or Badminton in England.
Discipline Context
The CCI4∗-S (four-star short) level serves as a primary proving ground for elite eventing pairs. Courses at this level, such as the one at Carolina International, are designed to test fitness and technical precision without the extreme endurance demands of a five-star. This competition is a critical fitness run for both West Coast and East Coast riders during the spring season. The success of U.S.-bred horses like Miks Master C also highlights the growing strength of domestic breeding programs in producing world-class eventing talent.
Quick Facts:
- Governing Body: United States Eventing Association (USEA) / FEI
- Location: Raeford, North Carolina
- Date: March 20, 2026
- Leader: Boyd Martin and Miks Master C (Score: 24.4)
- Course Designers: Brody Robertson (Show Jumping), Derek di Grazia (Cross-Country)
- Key Horses: Miks Master C (Swedish Warmblood), HSH Blake (Irish Sport Horse), Diabolo (Holsteiner)
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