Tamworth hobby trainer Stephen Meyer, 71, died after being kicked in the back at Scone racecourse on Friday, an incident involving his only trained horse, Danza In The Dark. Medical staff treated him trackside and the final race was delayed, with tributes pour
The Scone race carnival’s opening day ended in heartbreak when Tamworth hobby trainer Stephen Meyer was kicked in the back by his prized horse, and despite trackside treatment, he later died from his injuries.
Meyer, 71, suffered fatal injuries on Friday ahead of the final race at Scone racecourse in regional New South Wales.. Emergency services rushed to assist him following the incident involving his gelding Danza In The Dark. prompting the final race to be delayed while medical staff attended to him trackside.
Danza In The Dark was declared fit to race and still competed in the event, finishing towards the back of the field.
By Saturday morning, the closely connected racing community was united in grief as tributes flowed from trainers, jockeys and industry figures. Racing NSW chief executive Peter V’landys led the public condolences, describing Meyer as a respected horseman whose life revolved around thoroughbreds.
“ 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.
V’landys also noted Meyer’s success with Danza In The Dark, highlighting that the pair achieved a notable win in 2024, when Danza In The Dark took the Walcha and Quirindi Cups.
“Operating out of Tamworth, he achieved notable success with his stable star, Danza In The Dark, winner of the 2024 Walcha and Quirindi Cups,” the chief executive said.
Racing NSW extended its condolences to Meyer’s family and friends, praising his humble approach and the way his stories always returned to horses.
The NSW Trainers’ Association added its own message of support to members and the wider community, saying its trainers wished to “pass on its love and thoughts to Stephen’s family at this difficult time”.
Early reaction from racing personalities reflected the shock felt across the sport. Sky Racing presenter Chantelle Buckley wrote on X that it was “sad news overnight” after Meyer “took his only horse in work to Scone yesterday, he was kicked and sadly passed away,” adding, “Breaks your heart.”
Champion jockey Blake Shinn responded with one word: “Heartbreaking.” Channel 7 presenter Emma Freedman also addressed the tragedy during Saturday’s coverage.
“ The very tragic passing of hobby trainer Stephen Meyer … an absolutely awful incident at Scone,” Freedman said.
Freedman added: “He will be fondly remembered and very much missed by everybody who knew him. We send our condolences to his family.”
Before Saturday’s meeting at Scone, participants and racegoers observed a minute’s silence in honour of Meyer.
Meyer leaves behind a legacy shaped by devotion and work—finishing with six career trainer wins, all with Danza In The Dark, during a near two-decade journey as a hobby trainer.
Stephen Meyer Scone racecourse Danza In The Dark Tamworth trainer racing tributes minute's silence Hunter region horse kicked trainer