Last Saturday, Feb. 4, beloved and well-known German trainer Manfred Kötter - better known by his nickname "Manni," passed away. His family reported his passing via social media.
Kötter himself was once successful in the jumping saddle and then continued as -trainer, where he developed himself into a widely known and loved figure. For the German, dressage really was at the basis of everything, which is what he was so well known for.
For years he was, among other things, trainer to Paul Schockemöhle but also the sports students of the "Bundeswehr" were taught by the legendary trainer. Also among his students: Eva Bitter, Marcho Kutscher, Holger Wulschner,... just as everyone at Beerbaum's stable could enjoy the man's knowledge and experience. Among his successes is also both in team and individual Gold in Atlanta. Then he rode and cared for the German jumping horses during their quarantine for the Olympics.
Remarkable? Otto Becker, the current national trainer was also once taught by Kötter. "He was a rider and expert in classical dressage."
Our condoleances to everyone affected by this loss.