The 87-year old German Grand Prix rider Willy Schetter became the recipient of German Equestrian Federation's Riders Cross in bronze at the 2025 CDI-W Stuttgart on 16 November 2025.
He received the honour for his exceptional lifetime achievement in equestrian sport, his decades-long commitment to the sport, and his significant support of young riders.
A Way of Life
Willy Schetter has been firmly rooted in equestrian sport for many decades – as an active rider, supporter, and passionate horseman. To this day the 87-year-old regularly rides and still holds a valid annual competition license for his long-time club, the Waiblingen Riding Club. Schetter's daughter, Karen Tebar, is a former French team rider.
Willy Schetter's competitive career dates back to the mid-1970s. His first recorded placing was in 1976 in Nördlingen on Calvados. His most recent successes date from 2023 – a placing in the Grand Prix in Reutlingen riding Dirbini. As an amateur rider, Willy Schetter amassed over 400 placings in advanced-level dressage competitions. He was awarded the Golden Riding Badge in 1989.
Promoter and mentor of young equestrian athletes
His contribution to equestrian sport extends far beyond his own competitions. As an entrepreneur, Schetter generously supported equestrian sports for many years – as a sponsor, donor, and enabler through his family's company, Stihl.
He was particularly passionate about fostering young talent: thanks to his support, young riders from Baden-Württemberg were able to take important steps in their athletic development. With horses, encouragement, and his passion for the sport, he was a true mentor to many. Anyone who meets Willy Schetter quickly senses his special connection to horses and the sport. His attitude is characterized by fairness, joy, and a deep understanding of the horse as a partner. Even at 87, he exemplifies that riding is more than just a sport – it's a way of life.
Recognition for exceptional commitment
With the German Equestrian Cross in Bronze, the German Equestrian Federation (FN) honours the decades of service of a man who has shaped equestrian sport in Baden-Württemberg and beyond.
He has received this official award for "his sporting achievements, his generous support, and his tireless dedication to young riders. The FN warmly congratulates Willy Schetter on this special honour and thanks him for his great commitment to equestrian sport," the FN communicated.
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