Paul Schockemöhle turns 80

Paul Schockemöhle, one of the most iconic and influential figures in international equestrian sport, turns 80 on March 23. Known for his unmatched ambition, business savvy, and lifelong dedication to horses, the German entrepreneur and former champion show jumper has left an indelible mark on the sport—both in the saddle and beyond. While he only celebrated his 50th birthday with a large party, this time he’s keeping things quiet, spending his 80th in Florida with his wife Bettina, attending the CSIO in Ocala and then heading to Wellington—surrounded, of course, by horses.

From riding legend to breeding mogul

Schockemöhle began his sporting career relatively late, but once committed, he rose to the very top. He became European Champion in 1981 and again in 1983 and 1985—each time with his legendary partner, the Hanoverian gelding Deister. Despite his success, he often found himself at odds with sporting authorities, famously calling out unfair treatment and becoming a vocal representative for fellow riders. His retirement from competition came in 1987, under controversial circumstances, but his passion for horses never faded.

After stepping back from sport, Schockemöhle turned his focus to horse breeding and business. He built a global equine empire, owning around 5,000 horses and operating one of the world’s largest private studs, Gestüt Lewitz, where he expects 1,200 foals this year. He also made headlines with his high-profile acquisition of dressage sensation Totilas in 2010—a deal he later admitted didn’t meet expectations, though it still proved financially worthwhile.

A life shaped by bold decisions

From becoming Germany’s largest egg producer as a teenager to establishing himself as a self-made multi-millionaire, Schockemöhle has always been a man of action. His ventures extended beyond horses into logistics, real estate, and construction. He also played a major role in shaping modern equestrian sport as a tournament organizer and auction pioneer—co-creating events like the German Classics and the renowned PSI Auction.

Despite setbacks and controversies, including the public fallout from the 1990 barring scandal, Schockemöhle has remained a resilient and respected figure. His influence continues through the riders he mentored, such as Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum and Dirk Hafemeister, and through his ongoing work in breeding and coaching.

At 80, Paul Schockemöhle is no longer in the spotlight—but his legacy lives on in every arena and breeding barn touched by his vision.