Raeford, NC - January 23, 2014. The Carolina International CIC and Horse Trials is pleased to announce that more than $40,000 in prize money will be awarded at the inaugural competition to be held March 20-23, 2014 at the Carolina Horse Park in Raeford, NC. Competitors in the CIC3* will be vying for their share of a $25,000 purse, while $10,000 will be awarded in the CIC2*, and CIC1* entries will be competing for a further $5,000. Prize money is also being offered for top placing finishers in Training through Advanced level competition.

A PRO Tour and Adequan USEA Gold Cup Series event will run simultaneously with the theme "Bring Back the Gold", celebrating the 30 year anniversary of the United States capturing Eventing Team Gold at the 1984 Olympic Games. Members of the historic team will attend the competition and will be celebrated at Saturday's "Bring Back the Gold" Competitors party.

"The Carolina International is committed to hosting a world class competition and we feel that an important part of that is offering significant prize money across the divisions. With many of our best horses and riders in North America contending for more than $40,000 in purse money we will have an outstanding weekend of elite competition." said Robert Costello, Carolina International Organizing Committee Chair. "Additionally, the theme of 'Bring Back the Gold' will create a special and unique atmosphere during the weekend as we celebrate one of the United States' crowning Olympic achievements, while watching present and future stars compete."

With more than 250 acres of pristine footing and North Carolina's best soil the Carolina International will provide a supreme opportunity for North America's best to test their skill over world-renown course designer Hugh Lochore's new and innovative tracks. In addition to hosting elite competition, the weekend will provide a free, family friendly environment to be enjoyed by all.

To learn more about the Carolina International visit; http://www.carolinahorsepark.com/carolina-international-cic/about-the-carolina-international-cic