October 23 — Dr. Edgar Hotz, a prominent dressage judge and favorite judge trainer, died on October 17, 2001, from complications of a severe stroke. Dr. Hotz’s judging career spanned 30 years and he eventually became an AHSA ‘S’ judge, Canadian ‘S’ judge and FEI ‘I’ judge. He officiated at countless major shows in the United States and abroad, including several Olympic selection trials, World Cup Finals, Olympic Festivals, and American Young Rider Championships.
Dr. Hotz was a highly regarded instructor for aspiring judges and conducted many seminars and other educational activities. He served on numerous committees, including the AHSA Dressage Committee and USET Dressage Committee. He served the on the AHSA Board of Directors from 1996 to 1998. He was also a member of the USDF Judges Council, the USDF “L” Program Faculty, and the German Judges Association. He will be sorely missed by his many friends and colleagues as well as the many competitors who had the privilege of riding in shows where he officiated.
Edgar Hotz was born July 24, 1941 in Seeligenstadt, Germany. He studied economics in Germany and worked some time as a banker in Frankfurt. After the death of his father-in-law, he took over the Machine Tool Company owned by his wife’s family and subsequently represented it in the United States. His parents preceded him in death.
His first riding experiences were in a private club near Munich. Later, he boarded several horses in the stable that was owned by the family of his future wife, Irmtraud. At the time, Hotz was active in all equestrian disciplines, including hunting which was one of his favorite activities.
He married Irmtraud in 1971 and they moved to the United States that same year. Since then, they resided at their Dogwood Farm in Lebanon, NJ. Besides being a passionate equestrian, Dr. Hotz was very fond of classical music. Already as a 12-year-old, he was the organist at many church ceremonies. Later, he also conducted choirs and gave piano recitals. He loved to read and indulge in animated conversations.
In his memory, Mrs. Hotz would appreciate donations to the Red Cross for victims of the September 11th attack. Contributions can be sent to any local American Red Cross office. Checks should be earmarked “Disaster Fund New York.”
