The Australian racing industry is mourning the death of respected Tamworth hobby trainer Stephen Meyer after he suffered fatal injuries in a tragic accident at Scone racecourse in regional NSW.
Meyer, 71, was kicked in the back on Friday ahead of the final race on the opening day of Scone’s two-day carnival in the Hunter region.
Emergency services rushed to assist the veteran horseman after the incident involving his prized gelding Danza In The Dark, with the final race delayed while medical staff treated him trackside.
Despite desperate efforts, Meyer later died from his injuries.
Danza In The Dark, the only horse Meyer trained, was declared fit to race and still competed in the event, finishing towards the back of the field.
The tragedy sent shockwaves through the close-knit racing community, with tributes flowing from trainers, jockeys and industry figures on Saturday morning.
Veteran Tamworth trainer Stephen Meyer died after suffering catastrophic injuries during a tragic race day accident at Scone carnival
Racing participants and punters observed a minute’s silence before Saturday’s meeting as tributes poured in for Meyer.
Racing NSW chief executive Peter V’landys described Meyer as a respected figure whose life revolved around horses.
‘A dedicated and highly regarded horseman from the Hunter North West district, Stephen was known for his integrity, work ethic, and deep lifelong love for thoroughbreds,’ V’landys said.
‘Operating out of Tamworth, he achieved notable success with his stable star, Danza In The Dark, winner of the 2024 Walcha and Quirindi Cups.
‘His humble approach and sportsmanship earned him wide respect across the industry.
‘Every story he told always included mention of a horse.
‘Racing NSW extends its deepest condolences to Stephen’s family and many friends.’
Meyer enjoyed six career wins as a trainer, all with Danza In The Dark, with the pair sharing a memorable victory in the 2024 Walcha Cup during Meyer’s near two-decade journey as a hobby trainer.
The NSW Trainers’ Association also paid tribute, saying its members wished to ‘pass on its love and thoughts to Stephen’s family at this difficult time’.
Sky Racing presenter Chantelle Buckley was among the first racing personalities to react publicly to the devastating news.
‘Sad news overnight with the passing of Tamworth trainer Steve Meyer who took his only horse in work to Scone yesterday, he was kicked and sadly passed away,’ she wrote on X.
‘Breaks your heart.’
Champion jockey Blake Shinn replied simply: ‘Heartbreaking.’
Channel 7 presenter Emma Freedman also addressed the tragedy during coverage on Saturday.
‘The very tragic passing of hobby trainer Stephen Meyer … an absolutely awful incident at Scone,’ Freedman said.
‘He will be fondly remembered and very much missed by everybody who knew him.
‘We send our condolences to his family.’
A minute’s silence was held before Saturday’s meeting at Scone as participants and racegoers honoured Meyer’s memory.
