Coroner releases findings into death of track rider for racehorse trainer Danny O’Brien

A coroner has released findings into the death of a Japanese track rider killed while working for a leading Melbourne Cup winning trainer.

Staff for Danny O’Brien Racing talk with police following the death of stablehand Takamasa Takeda near Barwon Heads in 2020. Picture: Alan Barber

A coroner has handed down findings into the death of a track rider working for a Melbourne Cup winning trainer in Barwon Heads.

Danny O’Brien strapper, Takamasa Takeda, died in March 2020 when the horse he was riding was hit by a car crossing Thirteenth Beach Road.

The death saw the stable face a Geelong court over allegations it did not provide a safe workplace.

Danny O'Brien is one the leading trainers in Australia, with his stable based on the Bellarine Peninsula.. Photo: Reg Ryan/Racing Photos

A lack of high visibility clothing and gear formed a key component of the trial before a jury acquitted the company in 2023.

Victorian coroner Simon McGregor has concluded Mr Takeda died as a result of a number of contributing factors, including poor visibility at the time of the early-morning collision “compounded by the absence of high-visibility clothing, reflective gear or lights worn by the riders”.

The driver involved was found to have cannabis in her system, something Mr McGregor was satisfied would have impaired her driving ability, but not enough to presume it was the major cause.

The rider's helmet after he was hit by car at the Blackgate end of 13th Beach Road in Barwon Heads. Picture: Alan Barber

He said the collision occurred as a result of low light conditions that impeded her chance to see the horses and riders crossing the road in time to brake safely.

Mr Takeda was a much-loved staff member and Japanese national who had moved to Australia to work with Mr O’Brien, one of horse racing’s leading trainers.

His stable is based in Connewarre on the Bellarine Peninsula.

According to the report, O’Brien Thoroughbreds had further improved safety measures for its horses and riders when crossing public roads in the wake of the death, including the introduction of high visibility requirements.

The scene at the time of the tragedy. Picture: Alan Barber

The speed limit along the coastal road has also been reduced from 80km/h to 60 km/h.

Mr McGregor recommended VicRoads and the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) consider updating public education over cannabis use and driving.

He said road surface and weather conditions did not contribute to the tragic accident.

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Originally published as Coroner releases findings into death of track rider for racehorse trainer Danny O’Brien