Tragedy Strikes Harness Racing Community with Death of Driver Hunter Myers

WASHINGTON, Pa. – The harness racing community is in mourning following the tragic death of 27-year-old driver Hunter Myers, who succumbed to injuries sustained in an accident during a race at The Meadows on Wednesday night.

Myers was participating in a harness race when a six-horse collision occurred, leading to severe injuries that resulted in his death early Thursday morning at Allegheny General Hospital.

“We’re all in a daze. You feel like you lost a family member,” said Michelle Venneri, a horse groomer and friend of Myers at The Meadows. “Rest in peace, Hunter; we love you. We’re going to miss you, really going to miss you.”

The Ohio Harness Horsemen’s Association expressed their condolences, stating, “Hunter was a young star and was taken too early from us. The OHHA sends prayers and condolences to Hunter’s fiancée, Chloe, their son, Hayden, and Hunter’s family and friends.”

The Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame also issued a statement of sympathy, saying, “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Hunter Myers and send our thoughts and prayers to the entire Western Pennsylvania and Ohio harness racing communities as they navigate this tragic loss.”

In response to the tragedy, the Meadows Standardbred Owners Association has canceled all racing events for the remainder of the week in honor of Myers and his family. A deep sense of loss permeates the racetrack as those who knew Myers reflect on his impact in the community.

“He just drove one of my horses last week. You see him in the paddock every day that we race. This is our life here. We’re all friends. It’s a family,” Venneri added, highlighting the close-knit nature of the racing community.

Myers is survived by his fiancée and young son, and the outpouring of love and memories from fellow racers, trainers, and fans underscores the profound loss felt by many.

The excitement of the races is now overshadowed by grief, as family, friends, and colleagues remember Hunter Myers not only for his talent but also for the friendships he fostered throughout his career.