Tragedy in Waikato: 10-Year-Old Jimmy Schick Killed, Father Critically Injured, Two Others Hurt in Devastating ATV Crash
Cambridge, New Zealand — Heartbreak has engulfed the New Zealand equestrian and racing communities following a devastating ATV crash in the Waikato District on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11, 2025. The tragic incident claimed the life of 10-year-old Jimmy Schick—son of prominent horseman Rodney Schick—and left his father critically injured. Two other children, believed to be Jimmy’s brother and a young friend, also sustained injuries in the crash and are currently recovering.
The crash occurred on a remote part of the family’s rural property near Cambridge, home to the world-renowned Windsor Park Stud, a cornerstone of New Zealand’s thoroughbred breeding industry. Authorities confirm that a six-seater side-by-side ATV carrying four people overturned in a field just before noon. The circumstances surrounding the accident are still under investigation, but initial reports suggest the vehicle rolled while traveling across uneven terrain.
Emergency services responded quickly, but due to the property’s remote location and rough access, neighbors and local farmers were called upon to assist in reaching the crash site. A rescue helicopter was deployed to airlift the critically injured. Tragically, despite all efforts, young Jimmy Schick was pronounced dead at the scene.
His father, Rodney Schick—managing director of Windsor Park Stud—was flown to Waikato Hospital in critical condition. As of Monday morning, he remains in intensive care under close observation. The two other injured children were transported by ambulance and are reportedly in stable condition.
A Community Shattered
The loss of Jimmy has sent shockwaves across Cambridge and far beyond. Known as a lively, kind-hearted boy with a deep affection for horses, Jimmy was the pride of the Schick family and a familiar face around the paddocks of Windsor Park. Raised in the heart of New Zealand’s racing tradition, Jimmy was often seen alongside his father, soaking in the spirit of the sport and developing a bond with the horses his family dedicated their lives to.
“This is an unspeakable tragedy,” said a close family friend. “Jimmy was full of joy, full of life. He was the next generation of Windsor Park, already passionate about the work his father and grandfather built. This loss is just devastating.”
Jimmy was the grandson of Nelson Schick, founder of Windsor Park Stud, which has been a pillar of New Zealand racing for decades. The Schick family name is synonymous with excellence in thoroughbred breeding, and their contributions to the industry are respected globally. News of the tragedy has prompted an overwhelming outpouring of support from across the racing world.
Racing Industry and Nation Pay Tribute
New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) issued a heartfelt statement mourning the loss:
“The Schick family has been a beacon in our community, and the loss of young Jimmy is felt profoundly by all of us. We offer our deepest condolences and stand with them in grief.”
Racing clubs across the country plan to honor Jimmy with moments of silence at upcoming meetings, while jockeys and trainers will don black armbands as a gesture of solidarity. International breeders, trainers, and industry figures have also reached out with condolences and tributes, remembering Jimmy as a bright young boy whose life was steeped in the love of horses and family.
School, Friends, and Local Support
Jimmy’s school community is in mourning as well. Teachers describe him as a cheerful, curious student who loved to share stories of the farm and help classmates with a smile. Local clubs and sports teams where Jimmy participated are planning a vigil to celebrate his life and offer support to the grieving family.
Mental health support teams have been dispatched to his school, and community leaders in Cambridge are coordinating efforts to assist the Schick family through their recovery and grief.
Safety Concerns and Ongoing Investigation
While the focus remains on mourning and supporting those affected, the incident has also reignited conversations around ATV safety on farms, particularly where children are involved. Authorities are reviewing the accident to understand how it occurred and whether additional safety measures could prevent future tragedies.
According to police, the ATV involved was a side-by-side utility vehicle, commonly used on farms. Investigators will examine the condition of the vehicle, terrain, weather, and other factors. No foul play is suspected.
Looking Ahead: Honoring Jimmy’s Legacy
The Schick family, though devastated, has already received hundreds of messages of love and condolences. Friends and supporters have begun organizing donations to assist with medical expenses and support a potential safety awareness campaign in Jimmy’s memory.
A funeral and public memorial will be announced in the coming days, with many in the racing world expected to attend and pay tribute to the young boy whose life, though brief, touched so many.
As Cambridge and the New Zealand racing community come to terms with this immense loss, one message echoes louder than all: Jimmy Schick will never be forgotten. His laughter, love for horses, and the joy he brought to those around him will live on in the hearts of everyone he touched.