Racing: Caller goes with a flourish

Photo / Richard Robinson

Michael Cahill raised a $200 victory salute in honour of the great career of retiring race caller Wayne Wilson after winning on Deacon at Eagle Farm yesterday.

The Rohrig Handicap was Wilson's final race, ending a half century of race calling for the 62-year-old broadcasting legend.

"It's the first time in my career I've ever raised my whip like that but it's a thrill to do it for Wayne who has been a great race caller," Cahill said after being charged by stewards for flourishing his whip.

Wilson has brought the curtain down on his career to be with his family.

"I've had a wonderful career and I think my timing is right," he said.

"It's been a very emotional day for me.

"When I woke up this morning I had that feeling this is my last as a race caller.

"Since I was a boy I dreamt about calling the big races and here I am.

"It's been tough for me, but it's the right time."

Wilson, who was presented with a set of "Group One" cufflinks by the Brisbane Racing Club at a special presentation during the day, called his first race at Ferguson Park in Gladstone in 1960.

He joined Brisbane radio station 4BC in 1969, serving under the late Vince Curry until taking over as head caller in 1982 and eventually becoming one of the country's best.

He idolised Curry and regarded it as a privilege to be on the airwaves in the days of southern legends Bert Bryant and Ken Howard.

Wilson is still regarded as one of the country's finest callers with his colourful and accurate race descriptions.

In his typical professional manner, Wilson never missed a beat in his final call.

"That was a nerve-wracking experience," Wilson said. "But I'm so pleased it's over. Thank you all very much.

"A friend of mine told me not to be sad it's over and to be happy it's over."

Wilson is a proud family man and regrets not being part of his two sons' early childhood, missing out on watching them play sport on Saturdays because of his work commitments.

Now a proud grandfather of four, Wilson has vowed not to miss out again and wants a key role in their development.

"I could go on calling if I wanted to but I've had a good run," Wilson said.

"I've got four grandchildren and I want to have an influence in their lives and be a part of them.

"Family is priority now. I missed my own kids growing up and subconsciously I'm compensating by wanting to be with my grandkids."

- AAP