25-year-old Endel Ots of De Pere Wisconsin will be will be working and training Hubertus Schmidt the beginning of 2011 for at least a year. Bringing his 8 year old Negro Gelding “Enzo” with him, Ots, a USDF Bronze, Silver, & Gold medalist accepted the invitation after a recent visit to Fleyenhof – Schmidt’s Training Center in Germany. American “O” Dressage judge and trainer Gary Rockwell initiated the meeting after encouraging Ots to interview with Schmidt. “My trial rides went well, despite my nervousness being in front of my childhood idol.” Ots told DressageDaily.

What impressed me most about Mr. Schmidt was not just his expert advice or eye for detail, but that he still cared. After all of his international success, wealthy clients, famous students, World Cup Champion, Olympic medals, he still cared about some random guy coming off the street saying, “Mr. Schmidt I would like to learn.” In my decision to go into this sport as a profession, it was decided that we would treat it as any other college. In doing so we thought that it would be valuable to continue my education in Germany, as they have been leaders of this sport for decades. My father stated that in becoming a successful Neurosurgeon, he did not attend just one school, but many. ‘Each person has something they are very good at.’ My father told me. ‘The best way to a successful well rounded education is to visit many schools and study under a few masters.’

Hubertus Schmidt at the The Professional Riders Clinic and Symposium – 2009

Hubertus Schmidt is known as the best dressage trainer in the world, a modern day master. “Training horses is my passion, “ Ots added, “and to see his system produce international Grand Prix horse after international Grand Prix horse that are happy and enjoy their work is what I want to continue to learn.”I want to thank my family & father (Max Ots) for being there and supporting me since the start, Mr. Rockwell for his selfless help and advice. I don’t know where I would be without your help. Also, Patti Becker for all your guidance and training, Kassie, Agata, & my friends from KYB Dressage, and also everyone else who has helped me with my dreams. I promise, I will put my nose to the saddle, and do you all proud.

Ots worked at KYB Dressage in Illinois for seven years, and his father owns Ots Sunrise Farm (www.otssunrisefarm.com) in De Pere, Wisconsin a well known Friesian and Warmblood Boarding and Training Facility. In addition to his USDF Gold Medal, Ots has finished two horses to Grand Prix, and had Numerous Regional & National Awards including: 2008 Wins at Dressage at Devon CDI in Intermediare 1 and Intermediare 1 Freestyle and 2008 USDF Prix St. George Horse of the Year with Bentley now owned and ridden by Young Rider Meghan Davis. In 2009 he was Region 2 Great American Regional Champion of Prix St. George, Intermediare 1 and Intermediare 1 freestyle on Playboy.

You can reach Endel Ots via e-mail endelots@gmail.comAnd on his Facebook Page