About Karl Cook - American Equestrian Show Jumper

Karl Cook began riding at the age of eight alongside his mother, Signe, and sister, Annie Laurie. What started as a family activity quickly became a lifelong passion. Between 2007 and 2009, he was a standout Junior and Young Rider, representing the United States at the FEI North American Youth Championships (NAYC) for three consecutive years, earning team and individual gold in 2007 and team and individual silver in 2008.

Now based at Pomponio Ranch South in Rancho Santa Fe, California, Cook has established himself as one of America’s top show jumpers. Under the guidance of his longtime coach and mentor Eric Navet (FRA), he has represented the United States in multiple FEI World Cup Finals, Nations Cup events, and the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, where he helped secure Team Silver aboard Caracole de la Roque.

In 2025, Cook made history as the first rider ever to win three CSIO 5* Grand Prix titles in a single year, claiming victories in Rotterdam, Falsterbo, and St. Tropez. His impressive list of additional achievements includes the $1 Million Coachella Cup, the American Gold Cup, and the Hampton Classic Grand Prix. In 2023, he was also named Major League Show Jumping’s Top Individual Rider, further cementing his place among the sport’s elite.

Driven by precision, consistency, and a deep respect for his horses, Karl Cook continues to embody excellence in modern show jumping on the world stage.

Show Jumping Milestones:

Discover Karl Cook’s most significant achievements in international show jumping, from Olympic Team Silver to historic CSIO5* Grand Prix victories. Explore his full list of career milestones here.

Outside the Show Ring:

Karl devotes his attention to several projects, the most viral of which is Walking & Talking. What started in 2019 as a way to analyze his rounds for others has morphed into a passion for education and product development. View his YouTube page here.

Interests:

Karls interests include sustainable vegetable gardening, cooking, metal and woodworking, photography, and antique book collecting.

Motto:

"If it's worth doing, it's worth overdoing"

Family:

Mackenzie Drazan Cook (Spouse), Annie Laurie Landefeld (Sister), David Cook (Brother), Signe Ostby (Mother), and Scott Cook (Father)

Karl Cook hugging his dog Blueberry – Heartwarming moment between the Olympic equestrian rider and his beloved pet.
Meet

Blueberry

You know her. You love her. She is Miss Blueberry. 

Adopted by Karl in 2019, Blueberry quickly became a social media sensation, capturing the hearts of followers with her charming personality and playful antics. A true barn favorite, she enjoys spending her days basking in the sun or exploring new destinations as she travels alongside Karl. Known for her independent spirit, it’s clear that Blueberry is the one who calls the shots.

MEET

BANANA

Banana is a rescued pitbull with a heart as big as her goofy personality. Just like Blueberry, she’s full of love, always ready for cuddles, and has a knack for making every moment brighter. Whether she’s zooming around with uncontainable joy or melting into a puddle of affection, Banana is a reminder that the best things in life often come with wagging tails and endless kisses.

Karl Cook and his dog, Banana, enjoying a moment together.

If It's Worth Doing,
It's Worth Overdoing!

- Karl Cook