When he was three months old, Vail's mother emigrated with him to Syracuse, New York, where he was raised.
In a quote about his career for a book, Vail stated: "The car I drove, I bought it from Harry Miller for $10,000.
You'd be guaranteed (cash) even if you didn't win, depending on the deal you made with the promoter.
"[2] After his retirement from driving, Vail promoted AAA and USAC sanctioned auto racing in the Northeastern United States.
From 1925 until 1971 Vail promoted the New York State Fair Championship race at the Syracuse Mile.