The international equestrian community has bid farewell to a legendary rider: Peter Luther. The esteemed German show jumper, renowned for his remarkable achievements with his Holstein horse Livius, passed away at the age of 85. Luther was not only a top-level competitor but also a passionate horseman who remained deeply connected to his Holstein roots.
Born in the low-lying town of Wilster in the Steinburg region, Luther preferred to stay out of the spotlight, despite his significant accomplishments. His greatest triumphs came alongside Livius, a descendant of the famous stallion Lord. Together, they formed an unbeatable duo in the 1980s, with a career-defining victory at the prestigious German Jumping Derby in Hamburg in 1980. Two years later, they earned a silver medal at the World Championships in Dublin, followed by a bronze medal for the German team at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles.
Luther’s success extended beyond the Olympics, as he won multiple medals with the German team at the European Championships, including gold in 1981 and bronze in 1985. His partnership with Livius is celebrated as one of the most iconic combinations in Holstein show jumping history.
After retiring from competitive riding, Luther became a respected trainer and mentor, guiding many riders both domestically and internationally. He was actively involved in training show jumpers and young stallions at the Holstein Verband. His family was integral to his work; both of his sons, Thieß and Hauke, pursued equestrian careers, and Luther remained engaged in training his grandchildren, Jesse and Jarka, until the end.
Related News
Luther’s impact went beyond the sport itself. From 1997 to 2009, he served on the Holsteiner Körkommission, where he played a crucial role in the admission of top stallions like Casall and Clarimo into breeding programs. In recognition of his dedication and exceptional contributions to show jumping, he received several prestigious awards, including the Golden Nadel of the Holstein Verband and the Fritz-Thiedemann Medal.
Peter Luther was an icon in equestrian sports, but to his family and friends, he was above all a dedicated and humble man.
