From a family of successful jockeys and trainers the Mornington based Vincent Hall is kept busy with his stable of horses but has time to reminisce about his riding days – especially the spring of 2002 when he won three in a row on a mare who is now a household name.
Are you from a racing family?
My Grandad “old Ron hall” trained and was a jockey along with his brother Joe Hall. Joe’s son is David Hall who trains in Hong Kong. I’m named after Uncle Brian BV Hall who trained at Flemington. My dad Ron Hall Jr drove trotters and rode over the jumps. Greg Hall is my uncle, Nick’s another cousin.
What is your first racing memory?
Going to the trots with my dad. And I learned to ride on Subzero in the trotting ring.
Who is your favourite horse and why?
Mr Lofty, I won eight races on him.
Who is the best horse you’ve been involved with?
Makybe Diva (Vincent was aboard her for her first three wins when she was trained by David Hall).
And the best horse you have seen?
I was on course for Winx and her four W.S Cox Plates, that was pretty special to see. And Black Caviar, it’s hard to split them.
Do you have any promising young horses for racing fans to look out for?
Mardaloop is just at the beginning of her career but I really like her.
Who do you admire most in racing?
Ciaron Maher, he started at the bottom and built an empire.
Who is your ‘what if’ horse?
Makybe Diva. If I was light enough perhaps I’d have a special Cup on the mantelpiece.
What is one change/improvement you’d love to see in racing?
The rating system. Also better conditions and incentives for strappers and stablehands.
What’s the funniest moment you’ve experienced in racing?
When I was riding I came home from a sweat and laid down for ten mins. I woke up three hours later having slept through my rides who won at Flemington!
What is your favourite racing moment/biggest thrill?
I always enjoy training winners at my home track Mornington and celebrating with my friends and family.
If you could time travel into a past racing moment what would it be?
Riding when Saintly was around. I used to have a poster of him on the wall.
Which horse of the past would you most like to have trained?
Makybe Diva. If you wanted to set her up to win a 1200m I think she could have, she was that good.
Which horse of the present would you most like to have in your stable?
Autumn Glow.
What is your favourite pastime outside of racing?
Spending time with my daughter Heidi and partner Briar.
What is your favourite movie?
Snatch. Anything Guy Ritchie.
What slogan summarizes your outlook on life?
It’s on again tomorrow, have another go then.
Favourite food?
Japanese.
Favourite racecourse?
Flemington.
If you weren’t a racehorse trainer what would you be doing?
Rubbish truck driver.
