Alexandra Park crash: Harness racing driver Nathan Williamson seriously hurt

It’s not immediately clear if the married father was struck by following racers, but a Hato Hone St John Ambulance spokeswoman said they were called to an incident at the central Auckland race track at 8.14pm.

“[We sent] one ambulance and one rapid response unit to the scene. Our crews assessed and treated one patient who was transported to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.”

Williamson, who is in his mid-30s, is part of a high-profile horse training and racing family, including parents Phil and Bev and younger brothers Matthew and Brad.

Phil Williamson told the Herald his son had suffered head injuries, but the exact details were not yet clear.

Nathan Williamson, pictured at right, in 2017 with, from left, father Phil Williamson and brothers Brad Williamson and Matt Williamson.

Williamson’s wife Katie was at his side in hospital and they were on their way to Auckland today, his parents said.

Williamson’s horse, Captain’s Mistress, was okay, Bev Williamson said.

Nathan Williams pictured driving Springbank Richard in the Inter Dominion NZ Metro Harness event in 2011. File photo / Greg Bowker

A post on the Nathan Williamson Racing Facebook page this morning thanked supporters.

“Thank you for all the messages of support for Nathan and family. An update will be posted when available.”

The post had received almost 200 reactions and more than 20 comments by 9.30am.

“Our prayers are with Nathan. Hoping for a quick recovery for our champion trainer”, wrote one supporter.

Nathan Williamson can be seen lying prone on the Alexandra Park race track after the seat on his cart appeared to break during a harness racing event last night. Photo / Screengrab from video

In a video posted to the Track Chat NZ Facebook page soon after last night’s incident, viewers were told of “horrific scenes here at Alexandra Park in the Group 1 Queen of Hearts”.

“The ambulance officers [were] obviously with Nathan as soon as possible, getting the best care he can.”

Captain’s Mistress had been caught “without drama and was escorted off the track safely”, she said.

“Our thoughts are certainly with Nathan and everyone involved at this time.”

Cherie Howie is an Auckland-based reporter who joined the Herald in 2011. She has been a journalist for more than 20 years and specialises in general news and features.