We are all here present at this Seventh Farrier / Veterinarian / Researcher Seminar courtesy of Mr. Hans Gunther Albrecht, Jr. Hans created these seminars, naming them in honor of the famous Kentucky farrier Tex Cauthen, and Hans’ seminar concept was enthusiastically received by the world Farrier / Veterinarian / Researcher communities. I, (Tom T ) was invited to be his academic coordinator and over the years Hans and I developed a close working relationship, Hans always being a delight to work with.
It was with great surprise and deep sadness that I learned on March 6th, 2022, that International Farrier Hans Gunther Albrecht Jr of Versailles, Kentucky had passed away peacefully in his sleep the previous night. Hans is survived by his devoted wife and love of his life, Vicki Albrecht; his daughter Krista Martz; granddaughters Cecilia and Adelaide; Cary Simon whom he regarded as his “second daughter;” and countless friends around the world who claim Hans as their adopted brother, father, or uncle. When Hans wasn’t “under a horse,” he had endless stories and jokes to share, and he was also a great listener, always making you feel that you were his one and only best friend.
Hans was born in Dusseldorf, Germany to Liberta and Gunther Albrecht, who moved to the United States when he was a child. Always the competitive athlete, Hans graduated from Long Beach State University, Long Beach, CA, with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. He next worked as Aquatics Director for Los Angeles County and then for Nike as National Running Director and National Road Race Promoter. In 1982 he moved to Levi Strauss where he competed in “Ride and Tie”, which events involved two riders and one horse. The need to learn how to shoe his “Ride and Tie” horse evolved into a passion for horses and farrier science. He attended Dr. Rick Redden’s clinics where farriers and veterinarians learn and work together, which tradition Hans has continued throughout his career. Hans also worked with farriers Fred Love, Mike Savoldi and Steve Norman, and soon became Director of Farrier Science at California State Polytechnic University.
Hans shod horses to win for over 30 years in the United States and internationally, including Dubai, Doha, England, and Ireland. Specializing in shoeing Thoroughbreds for racing and for the auction rings at Keeneland and Fasig-Tipton, he has lectured globally, even lecturing in German at Hanover University Veterinary. Based near Lexington, KY, Hans has always shod his horses to win.
-Thomas Tobin