Tragedy as 10-year-old boy dies and father 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."