Victory Robert Rail (1945–1994) was a prominent Australian racehorse trainer whose life was marked by dedication to his craft, an unconventional approach, and ultimately, a tragic end linked to the discovery of a new virus. This article delves into the life of Vic Rail, from his humble beginnings to his rise to fame as the trainer of the celebrated racehorse Vo Rogue, and the devastating outbreak that claimed his life.
Early Life and the Path to Racing
Born on August 15, 1945, in West Townsville, Queensland, Victory Robert Rail was the seventh of nine children. He left school early to pursue his passion for horses, beginning his journey in stables near the local racecourse. By fifteen, he was apprenticed as a jockey, demonstrating his athletic prowess not only in the saddle but also in the boxing ring, where he secured several North Queensland championships.
In 1963, Rail moved to Brisbane to continue his apprenticeship. While he achieved some success as a jockey, his increasing weight led him to transition to hurdle and steeplechase races in Melbourne in 1964. However, this phase was short-lived, and he abandoned competitive riding in 1965. He spent the following year working as a stablehand, gaining valuable experience under different trainers.
Developing a Training Philosophy
Returning to Brisbane in 1966, Rail immersed himself in various roles within the racing industry, including strapping, trackwork riding, and learning the farrier’s trade. He married Coleen Cecily Thomsett in 1966, though they later divorced in 1981. A significant period in his development as a trainer came in 1968 when he became stable foreman for Tommy Woodcock in Melbourne. Woodcock’s tutelage proved invaluable, particularly in teaching Rail how to prepare horses effectively and manage their diets according to their training regimens.
The Rise of Vo Rogue and Vic Rail’s Unorthodox Methods
In 1973, Rail returned to Brisbane with aspirations of becoming a trainer in his own right. He secured a permit from the Queensland Turf Club and, in his first season, saw his small stable achieve six wins on country tracks. For a decade, he honed his skills, supplementing his income with trackwork and farrier services.
His fortunes dramatically changed with the arrival of Vo Rogue, a colt purchased by a group of friends. Vo Rogue, trained by Rail, went on to win twenty-six races and amass over $3.1 million between 1986 and 1991. His front-running style captivated racegoers, securing six Group 1 victories and ten Group 2 wins.
Vo Rogue’s success propelled the unassuming Vic Rail into the spotlight. He was known for his unconventional training methods, prioritizing a natural environment for his horses. He allowed them to roam in yards during the day, eschewed rugs except in extreme cold, and notably, avoided using horseshoes, believing horses weren’t born with them. These practices sometimes led to fines from stewards, including one instance where he was fined for riding Vo Rogue in trackwork while wearing thongs instead of riding boots.
A Tragic Outbreak and the Discovery of Hendra Virus
In September 1994, a sudden and devastating outbreak occurred in Rail’s stables. Two horses brought from a suburban paddock developed severe respiratory illness. Despite veterinary intervention, their condition deteriorated, and the illness rapidly spread to other horses in Rail’s and neighboring stables. Within a week, fourteen horses had died or were euthanized.
Tragically, Vic Rail himself began exhibiting similar symptoms. Urged by his partner, Lisa Symons, he sought medical attention and was admitted to a Brisbane hospital. He passed away a week later, on September 27, 1994.
The disease was identified as an acute equine respiratory syndrome, marking the first known instance of what would become known as Hendra virus. Subsequent research revealed the virus’s natural reservoir to be flying foxes, with horses likely becoming infected through contact with contaminated vegetation. Rail’s final winner was Shampan, ridden by his son Troy.
Legacy
Victory Robert Rail’s story is one of passion, innovation, and a profound connection with horses. His unorthodox methods, while sometimes met with skepticism, were integral to the success of Vo Rogue. His life, however, is also tragically intertwined with the discovery of a new and dangerous virus, a discovery that came at the ultimate cost. His contributions to horse racing and the scientific understanding of Hendra virus remain significant.
