It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Karl Ulrich Schmitz on November 4, 2024, at the age of 80. Uli was born on April 9, 1944, in Gory, Poland to Karl and Ursula (Nee Jasper) Schmitz. He was taken to Germany in a covered wagon to escape the invasion by the Russians.

Uli’s early years were spent on one of the largest Trakehner breeding farms. He was fortunate to live in Europe’s highest double-moated castles. As a youth, he helped farm and also trained horses. He successfully competed in the German Youth Championships in eventing.

Military Service

His military service saw him as a sharpshooter and a trained sniper. After obtaining his Master’s in Agriculture, he moved to Manitoba, Canada, where he farmed 2000 acres of Sunflowers and Sorghum. He continued to ride and compete with a Saghya Arabian that he imported.

Years later, searching for a warmer climate, Uli moved to Florida and helped Jean Brinkman establish Valhalla Farms’ breeding program. Jean noted that he was highly educated in the best riding qualities, bloodlines, and preparing young horses. He also helped her bring her horse, Martini, to the Grand Prix.
The Grand Prix “chestnut with a flaxen mane and tail” Priam also resulted from their collaboration. Uli would always correct one if they ever called him a Palomino.

Uli met his wife, Dorie Vlatten-Schmitz, while both were chef d’quips at the North American Young Riders Championships. Within 6 weeks, they were engaged and, in 4 months, married. They married on April Fool’s Day in 1989 as they believed it was a good reminder always to have something to laugh about in marriage.

Central Arizona Riding Academy

Together, they built and have run Central Arizona Riding Academy, hosting over 50 recognized competitions. He was known for his strong will, unwavering determination, and work ethic. Uli’s life was a tapestry of diverse interests and hobbies. He found joy in gardening, solace in fishing, freedom in sailing, and harmony in music. His multifaceted nature added depth and richness to his character, leaving a lasting impression on those who knew him.

He will always be remembered by the riding community for his ethics and expertise as an FEI Event Judge, a USEF Dressage ” S” Judge, his vast knowledge as a trainer and teacher and above all, his kindness to horses. He was privileged to officiate at the Atlanta Olympics in 1996.

Karl Ulrich is predeceased by his parents, Karl and Ursula Schmitz and his siblings, Hannelore and Jurgen Schmitz. He is survived by his wife Dorie Vlatten-Schmitz, Children Carsten Otremba, Silke Otremba, and Dorothy (Lexie) Schmitz; grandchildren Santiago, Sebastian, Willow, and Sequoia; and great-grandchild Liam.

Donations may be made to the Equestrian Aid Fund or the Cerebral Palsy Foundation. Services will be held at the Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale, Arizona, on November 19, 2024 at 10:30 am. A reception will follow. RSVP’s appreciated for planning purposes.