Wednesday, October 17, 2001

Beloved Judge and Friend of Dressage - Edgar Hotz

In Memoriam - Dr. Edgar Hotz - July 24, 1941 - October 17, 2001

Dr. Edgar Hotz, one of our foremost dressage judges, died on October 17, 2001, from complications of a severe stroke. Edgar'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.

He was a highly regarded instructor for aspiring judges and conducted many seminars and other educational activities. Edgar served on numerous committees, including the AHSA Dressage Committee and USET Dressage Committee. He was a member of the USDF Judges Council, the USDF "L" Program Faculty, and the German Judges Association. He also was an AHSA Director. 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. Edgar also was a member of the German Airforce reserve. After the death of his father-in-law, he took over the Machine Tool Company owned by his wife's family and represented it since then in the United States.

His first riding experiences were in a private club near Munich. Later, he was boarding several horses in the stable that was owned by the family of his future wife, Irmtraud. At the time, Edgar 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, Edgar 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.

His parents preceeded him in death.

In his memory, Irmtraud would appreciate donations to the Red Cross for victims of the September 11 attack. Contributions can be sent to the local American Red Cross office. Checks should be earmarked "Disaster Fund New York".

"This is a painful and severe loss for me personally but I am sure that we all will miss Edgar as a friend and great fellow judge."
Marianne Ludwig