Life-threatening illness ends star pacer’s career

Bathurst harness racing trainer-driver Mat Rue has been through a tough time during the past few weeks.

The Miracle Mile-winning reinsman and owner Ben Hagney were forced to retire their star pacer Fouroeight (Rock N Roll Heaven) after the nine-year-old suffered a life-threatening illness.

Named in honour of former Test cricketer Phil Hughes, Fouroeight leaves the crease with an impressive career record of 28 wins and 38 placings from 107 starts, amassing $312,195 in stakes.

His victory in the 2021 Shirley Turnbull Memorial at Bathurst was one of the most popular wins ever witnessed west of the Great Divide as the pacer and Rue are both highly-regarded throughout the Western Districts.

“He was a once in a lifetime racehorse, taking his connections and I on one incredible ride,” said Rue.

“In the end, the decision to retire him was taken out of our hands as sadly he was suffering with Colitis.

“His life was in the balance, and he was so distressed.

“It made me physically ill witnessing him going through so much pain.

“Not only does he mean so much to me but everyone around my stables loves him too.

“He has earned his spot under a shady tree for the rest of his days.”

On a more positive note, the exceptionally-talented horseman is rapidly closing in on his 1000th career win in the sulky.

Rue currently sits on 987 wins and the milestone is now firmly within his sights.

His achievements have been built from many long days of demanding work and late nights going to race meetings and, when the milestone arrives it will be thoroughly deserved.

“For anyone to even drive in 1000 races is a significant effort, but to actually drive that many winners is something that I thought I would only dream about,” said Rue.

“Having been a trainer and driver for a number of years now, I appreciate just how tough a grind it is to prepare a team of horse to be consistently competitive at race meetings.

“It seems a world away from my humble beginnings growing up in Canowindra.

“But I have never lost sight of where it all began for me and I will be forever grateful for everyone who has supported me along the way, especially my family.”

Rue will drive in five of the eight races at Bathurst on Wednesday as he edges towards that magical milestone.

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by Michael Dumesny, for HRNSW