Rehn Nagel breaks through for first training win at Port Pirie

South Australia’s training ranks welcomed a new name into the spotlight on Tuesday night (17 March), when 26-year-old Rehn Nagel celebrated his first career victory as a harness racing trainer at Port Pirie. The breakthrough came courtesy of Roll With Mustard (Roll With Joe), who produced a bold, all-the-way performance under champion reinswoman Dani Hill.

Nagel, who has now only sent out nine starters in his fledgling career. Once Roll With Mustard rolled to the top, Hill rated him perfectly, controlling the tempo before dashing clear in the home straight to secure a memorable milestone for the young horseman.

“It was a great thrill to win a race with him just six months after I got my license to train.” Nagel said, but I could not have done it without the support of Leah Holman,” he added.

For those who have followed Nagel’s journey, Tuesday night’s success felt like the natural next step in a story that began long before he ever harnessed up a runner.

A Voice Before He Had a Licence

Long before he was training winners, Rehn Nagel was turning heads for a very different reason, his voice.

The art of racecalling is notoriously difficult to master, yet as a youngster Nagel showed a rare natural instinct, calling trials at Port Pirie and Mini Trots, he developed a fluency and confidence that belied his age. His early talent drew comparisons to seasoned callers, and it was clear he possessed a feel for the sport that couldn’t be taught.

It’s little surprise, given his family background. Nagel’s grandfather, John Tee, was a respected broadcaster of harness and greyhound racing on Radio 5AA and 5DN. Tee’s influence helped shape Rehn’s early love of the sport, and the pair shared countless hours discussing races, horses, and the rhythm of a good call.

“I called trials at Port Pire and even call a couple of races at Whyalla when my grandfather use to call there” Nagel add

From Stablehand to Trainer

As he grew older, Nagel transitioned from the broadcast box to the stables, building a reputation as a dedicated and capable horseman. His work ethic saw him recognised as a finalist for Stablehand of the Year when working for one of the state’s best thoroughbred stables, of Richard & Chantelle Jolly, and those who worked alongside him spoke highly of his horsemanship and attention to detail.

Part of his journey was to spend 12 months with Kate and Andy Gath in Victoria. “Kate is my cousin, and she is wonderful. If I ever need any help, she is always willing to help,” Nagel said.

Taking out his harness racing trainer’s licence was the next logical step — and now, with his first winner on the board, the young South Australian has announced himself as a trainer with a bright future.

Roll With Mustard’s victory was more than just a maiden win; it was a statement. A sign that Nagel has the patience, placement, and hands-on skill to bring out the best in his horses.

ROLL WITH MUSTARD REPLAY

With momentum now behind him and a deep well of industry experience for someone his age, it’s unlikely this will be the last time we see the Nagel name in the winner’s circle.

South Australia may have just found its next rising star.

For complete race results, click here.

by Gary Newton for Harnesslink