Determination, tenacity, and an unwavering commitment to never giving up defines Karl Slezak, a proud Canadian rider and athlete. With only months away from the Pan American  Games and less than a year away from the 2024 Paris Olympics, Karl is focused on one thing, his partner, Hot Bobo. The duo continues to shake up the North American Eventing leaderboard with success at the height of the sport. The story of this horse and rider combination is a testament to the value of trust and determination. “I love her so much. It’s very exciting for both of us to be at this stage in our partnership,” said Slezak.

Karl purchased Hot Bobo in Ireland as a four-year-old at the Monart Sale, and as he is known for, used his knack for getting the best out of a horse with patient training. And now, after six years of relationship building and steady conditioning, she has proved she is ready for the big leagues.

Their successes continue with many top five finishes in FEI competition in the past two years including, Terra Nova CCI3*-S- (2^nd place), Tryon CCI3*-L- (1^st place), Land Rover Kentucky CCI4*-S (1^st place) and Tryon CCI4*-L (4^th place). In Spring 2023, Karl and Hot Bobo became the first Canadian combination since 1992 to win the historic and prestigious Land Rover Kentucky CCI4*-S and heads are starting to turn as they finished on the lowest (best) score in the history of the event.

With their international success on the rise, Karl is more motivated than ever to continue improving and training amongst the most competitive combinations in the world with Hot Bobo. His plans are currently focused on an early summer campaign in the U.K. and Europe to train with the best in the world in their final preparations for the Olympics. Currently, the $25,000 fundraising goal will support his needs beginning now through the Pan American Games. One hundred percent of the funds go directly toward Karl and Hot Bobo's training, competitions, nutrition, and continual upkeep of ensuring both rider and horse and maintaining the highest level of training and commitment. Following the Pan American Games, the over arching fundraising will expand to a total of $100,000 before summer Paris Olympics 2024.

This means many miles of travel by land and air, entry fees, veterinary and support expenses and more. Karl is asking for your support to help forge ahead on this incredible journey!  Follow along here for the latest videos, updates and developments on Karl and Hot Bobo in their pursuit of the podium!