One of New Zealand’s most high-profile horse racing families has been struck by tragedy after a 10-year-old boy died, and two other family members were injured following an off-road vehicle crash.
Jimmy Schick, aged 10, passed away following an off-road accident while the group were believed to be on a hunting trip in the family’s estate near to Cambridge, New Zealand, on Sunday.
His father, Rodney, suffered critical injuries in the accident but is said to be in a stable condition. His brother, Oli, aged 12, also suffered injuries in the accident but is said to be ‘recovering well’ in the children’s ward.
A third child, understood to be a friend of the family, was also involved in the incident and is expected to be discharged from hospital on Wednesday, according to the New Zealand Herald.
Fire Brigade chief Dennis Hunt believes the six-seater ATV the group were driving had rolled on its side during the hunting trip.
The group were subsequently airlifted to hospital for further treatment.
The Schick family has announced that their son Jimmy, aged 10, (pictured) has tragically passed away following an off-road vehicle incident
Jimmy Schick (centre) pictured with his father Rodney (right) and brother Oli (left) were said to be out hunting on the Schick family’s land when the accident took place
‘In incredibly sad circumstances, the family kindly asks for privacy as they come to terms with the devastating loss of their dearly loved Jimmy,’ a Schick family spokesperson said in a statement published on Facebook.
‘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.
‘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.’
‘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.’
In the racing world, the Schick family are well regarded as royalty within the sport.
The family’s stable, Windsor Park Stud, is revered as one of the southern hemisphere’s most respected breeding organisations, being admired by those around the horse racing community.
The Schicks have bred some of the finest horses in the business, including the former Aidan O’Brien-trained Auguste Rodin, Paddington and Circus Maximus.
Jimmy had attended the Kaipaki School in Ōhaupō, and was described by his principal, Kim Budd, and board of trustee member Lisette Balsom as a ‘much loved student’.
In a statement released to Stuff, they said: ‘Our thoughts and aroha are with their whānau during this time of profound loss, including with other family members who are injured.’
More to follow…
