Karl Oertel is becoming a well-known name in the equestrian world not because of overnight fame or celebrity endorsements but through genuine passion, hard work, and a deep connection with horses. With over 200,000 followers on social media, Karl Oertel has built a community inspired by his dedication, resilience, and joyful approach to the demanding life of a professional horseman.
From Childhood Love to Professional Horseman
Karl Oertel’s journey with horses started long before he became the General Manager at AF Farms. Like many who love horses, his earliest memories are filled with feeding, grooming, riding, and simply spending long hours with these majestic animals. What set Karl Oertel apart was his pure love for the connection between horses and humans, not money or fame. He was drawn to the communication, movement, and trust that develops between rider and horse.
Today, Karl Oertel proudly calls himself a professional horseman. For him, this title means more than trophies or big event wins. It means living and breathing horsemanship every day, respecting the animal, and committing to lifelong learning. His social media bio simply states “Professional Horseman,” reflecting the humility and authenticity that his followers admire.
A Life Rooted in Passion and Hard Work
Karl Oertel’s life is far from glamorous. There are no spotlights or red carpets, just early mornings, the sound of hooves in the barn, and the steady progress of breeding and training horses at AF Farms. His followers get an honest look at this demanding lifestyle, seeing not only successes but also the everyday realities and challenges.
Each horse is different. Some are confident and eager to perform, while others are shy, hesitant, or carry emotional weight. Karl Oertel’s approach is built on patience, respect, and careful observation. He knows every horse has its own language and learning pace, and building trust takes time.
In today’s fast-paced world where people often want quick results, Karl Oertel stands out with his message: meaningful progress takes patience, and setbacks are part of growth. He is supported closely by AF Farms’ owner, Khalid Khalifa Al Nabooda, a six-time Champion Racehorse Owner, and his brother Ernst Oertel, a three-time UAE Champion trainer. Together, they form a strong team producing great results.
Karl Oertel’s posts show long days with horses, technical training challenges, and moments of self-doubt, followed by persistence instead of frustration. His honesty and transparency make his story relatable and inspiring.
Lessons Learned Through Struggles
Karl Oertel’s story is not without challenges. Early on, he faced financial struggles, injuries, and slow progress. Many would have given up, but Karl Oertel’s determination only grew stronger.
For Karl Oertel, struggles were not roadblocks but teachers. Difficult horses were chances to learn more about their behavior, and failed attempts were invitations to try new methods. This mindset is at the heart of his success.
His openness about hardships makes him relatable to many followers, not just professional riders but everyday people with their own struggles. They see Karl Oertel’s journey as a reflection of pushing toward a dream despite obstacles. His willingness to share both triumphs and setbacks builds a genuine connection with his audience.
Achievements Beyond Trophies
Karl Oertel’s achievements are not just about medals. While he has earned recognition in competitions, highlighted by victories such as AF Maher winning the Dubai Kahayla Classic and strong performances by AF Al Wajel, he values relationships with horses most.
Horses are sensitive and intelligent animals. They respond not only to skill but to genuine care, calm energy, and consistency. Karl Oertel has experienced many breakthrough moments when a horse begins to truly listen and respond out of trust, not fear. These moments define success for him.
Karl Oertel also inspires others by mentoring young riders, grooms, and owners. His guidance goes beyond technique to mindset, emotional strength, and personal growth. This community-building is a major part of his legacy.
A Day in Karl Oertel’s Life
Karl Oertel’s daily routine blends discipline and mindfulness. His work never stops because being a professional horseman is a 24/7 commitment, 365 days a year.
His day starts before sunrise, around 4:30 a.m., checking with foremen to ensure all horses at AF Farms are healthy and comfortable. Mornings are full of grooming, preparing equipment, warming up horses, teasing broodmares during breeding season, and breaking in young horses.
Pre-training varies by horse and goal. It might involve gate schooling, track riding, treadmill exercise, or checking broodmares’ pregnancy status. Foals and yearlings follow age-appropriate routines. Karl Oertel watches closely, knowing that a calm horse performs best.
Late mornings give horses a rest and allow Karl Oertel to reflect and plan future work. Evenings are when Karl Oertel engages with his online followers, answering questions, sharing insights, and offering encouragement.
Afternoons are for finishing barn and office duties, checking on horses, and planning the next day’s schedule. Nights can be unpredictable because calls about foaling mares, injuries, or illnesses require Karl Oertel’s immediate attention. He works closely with veterinarians to ensure top care, no matter the hour.
Karl Oertel’s motto, “Treat Others the Way You Want To Be Treated,” applies to both humans and animals, guiding his 24-hour care approach.
Current Life and Future Plans
Karl Oertel continues managing AF Farms, working closely with owner Khalid Khalifa Al Nabooda, trainer Ernst Oertel, and trainer Qaiss Aboud. He supports many horse owners in the UAE with advice and training.
His social media platform encourages people to pursue excellence with respect and patience. Karl Oertel shares new training techniques, rehabilitation stories, and learns from other professionals. This exchange broadens his knowledge and influence.
Outside of work, Karl Oertel enjoys simple pleasures like spending time with his loyal German Shepherd mix, Willow, cooking, and researching new treatments and training methods. He believes in constant learning to improve both horse care and his own skills.
His balanced life of passion, patience, and care makes his story inspiring and relatable.
Inspiring Beyond the Horse World
Karl Oertel’s story goes beyond horses. It is a lesson in perseverance, honesty, and growth that anyone chasing a dream can learn from.
He challenges the idea that success means perfection. Instead, he shows it is the daily grind, struggles, and steady progress that matter. His openness encourages people to see setbacks as lessons, not failures.
Karl Oertel’s online community is a place of support, celebration, and learning, a living proof that sharing true stories can inspire far beyond individual achievement.
What’s Next for Karl Oertel?
Karl Oertel’s future is clear. He plans to remain General Manager of AF Farms for years to come, sharing his passion and insights with the world. He wants more people to experience the joy of horsemanship and understand the bond between horse and human.
New training programs, collaborations, and deeper content on living with horses are in the works. Karl Oertel’s path shows he will stay a key figure in the equestrian world, not chasing fame but living the true spirit of horsemanship.
His story is about courage, care, and chasing dreams with purpose. Karl Oertel reminds us that passion paired with persistence builds a legacy worth following.
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