Stablehand to Danny O’Brien killed after collision at Connewarre
A heartbroken Danny O’Brien is helping counsel stable staff following the death of one of the Melbourne Cup-winning trainer’s stablehands, who died in a collision with a car at Connewarre.
Geelong
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A heartbroken Danny O’Brien is helping counsel stable staff following the death of one of the Melbourne Cup-winning trainer’s stablehands, who died in a collision with a car at Connewarre.
The Japanese male, aged in his early 30s, died on Thirteenth Beach Road after he and his horse were involved in a collision with a motorist.
A devastated O’Brien, who won last year’s Melbourne Cup with Vow And Declare, rushed to the scene.
He is now comforting the 35 staff who work at his Thirteenth Beach stable, about 19km southeast of Geelong.
“It’s with a heavy heart and with tremendous grief that we confirm an incident that claimed the life of one of our staff this morning,” he said in a statement.
“Our thoughts, prayers and support are with the family of our friend and colleague and all of our team. We are completely heartbroken.
“We have had some tough days in this industry, but they are nothing compared to the heartbreak and sadness of today.
“We ask that the privacy of our staff to be respected as they come to terms with today’s tragedy.
“It appears that the horse in question of the incident has only minor injuries, however our vet will continue monitoring its progress. Our owners of the horse have been notified.”
The horse, an unraced, unnamed youngster, has been taken to Werribee veterinary hospital for assessment.
Its injuries are believed to be minor.
Police say a car travelling on Thirteenth Beach Road struck the horse and rider about 6.45am.
It is believed the horse and rider were crossing the road after exercising on the beach.
The horse was one of four horses crossing the road when the incident occurred.
No other horses or riders were hurt.
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Emergency services and Worksafe attended the scene.
O’Brien cancelled plans to travel to today’s Adelaide Cup, where his runner King Of Leogrance is the favourite.
Originally published as Stablehand to Danny O’Brien killed after collision at Connewarre