Hilmer Schmidt, owner-breeder, dies at 85

Hilmer Schmidt, who raced Grade 1 winner Golden Bri, died May 26 in Brenham, Texas. He was 85.

Schmidt also had longstanding ties to the Florida breeding and racing industry, where he owned and operated Indian Hill Farm in Ocala. In addition, he was a past president of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Association, and one of the founders of the Ocala Breeders' Sales Company.

Golden Bri's greatest career victory came in the Coaching Club American Oaks at Belmont Park in 1995.

Schmidt was born in Richmond, Texas. His wife, Faye, who was also active in racing, died last summer. The couple was inducted into the Texas Horse Racing Hall of Fame at Retama Park in 2006.

Services for Schmidt are scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday at Memorial Oaks Chapel at 1306 W. Main in Brenham, Texas.