Horse racing tragedy as 10-year-old boy dies and dad in intensive care after off-road crash

Tragedy has struck one of New Zealand’s best known racing families following a vehicle crash in which a 10-year-old boy lost his life and his father was critically injured.

The Schick family own one of the top studs in the southern hemisphere, Windsor Park Stud in Waikato, where the enviable stallion roster includes the ex-Aidan O’Brien stars Auguste Rodin, Paddington and Circus Maximus. But the community has been left shattered by the death of Jimmy Schick, 10, in an horrific off-road accident on Sunday, in which dad Rodney Schick, other son Oli, 12, and another child were injured.

On Tuesday, Windsor Park Stud posted a statement on its page which read: “In incredibly sad circumstances, the family kindly asks for privacy as they come to terms with the devastating loss of their dearly loved Jimmy.

“Rodney is receiving the best possible care from the dedicated team in the Intensive Care Unit at Waikato Hospital and further updates will be shared as information becomes available.

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"He is in a stable condition with a long recovery expected. Oli is recovering well with support from the amazing team in the children’s ward."

It is believed the group were on a hunting trip in a six-seater All-Terrain Vehicle in a remote area of the Schick's land when it rolled over.

Police later confirmed that Jimmy Schick had died in the accident while Rodney Schick had to be winched out of the wreckage before he and the two other children were flown by helicopter to hospital in Waikato. Their condition was described as stable.

A statement posted on the Windsor Park Stud X account added: “The Schick family and Windsor Park team express their sincere and heartfelt appreciation for the outpouring of love, support and concern during this most difficult of times.

“We appreciate everything that has been provided and sent to the family - we are well supported and catered for at this stage. Thank you for your understanding and support."

Numerous tributes have been left on the Windsor Park Stud Facebook page, many from those who followed Jimmy's exploits on social media.

One post said: "I cannot tell you how sorry I am to know you are going through this. Anyone that follows the EventStars page will feel as though they know Jimmy and his siblings, even spoke to him on the hunt field a few weeks ago egging him on. My heart is utterly broken for you all.

"So pleased to know Rod is stable and thank you for being able to share this update.. Fingers crossed for Oil & Rod’s recoveries, and to the “friend” I’m sorry I cannot put a name to that person but you are not without thought…..wishing you all the best if you or your family read this."

Another wrote, "So many of us are so devastated for you and your wonderful family, an absolute tragedy that was so undeserved. You provide so much for others and support so many in the horse industry. We have loved being part of your wonderful family’s life vicariously through Eventstars. So unfair, so so sorry for your loss."

Among other tributes was, "I think every one of us that has followed Jimmy's amazing, young life for 10 years has a little of their heart torn out. I still can't believe it's real, I can't stop thinking of him. This must be unbearable for you all. Thinking also of Rod and Oli. How I wish this was a terrible dream."

The Schick family have set up in the wake of the tragedy with a five figure sum already raised for the emergency services.