Frank Hayes

Frank Hayes was an American jockey who gained fame for winning a steeplechase race at Belmont Park in New York while dead. His achievement is still considered one of the most unusual in the history of horse racing, with many comparing it to the feats of famous jockeys like Isaac Murphy and Eddie Arcaro. Hayes' life and career were marked by his association with prominent thoroughbred owners and trainers, including Sunny Jim Fitzsimmons and John M. Gaver Sr.. He rode horses at various tracks, including Saratoga Race Course and Aqueduct Racetrack, competing against other notable jockeys like Earl Sande and Albert Johnson (jockey).

● Early Life

Frank Hayes was born in 1900 in New York City to a family of modest means. He grew up in a neighborhood surrounded by horse racing enthusiasts and soon developed a passion for the sport, often visiting Jamaica Racetrack and Empire City Race Track to watch races featuring famous horses like Man o' War and Exterminator. As a young boy, Hayes worked as a stable boy for several trainers, including H. Guy Bedwell and James G. Rowe Sr., learning the ins and outs of horse care and racing tactics. He eventually became an apprentice jockey under the guidance of William Duke, who had trained champions like Whirlaway and Seabiscuit. Hayes' early career was influenced by the likes of Fred Taral and Danny McAuliffe, who were known for their skills in the saddle.

● Career

Hayes' professional jockey career spanned several years, during which he rode for various owners and trainers, including Harry F. Sinclair and William Woodward Jr.. He competed in numerous steeplechase and flat racing events, often facing off against top jockeys like George Woolf and Ivan Parke. Hayes' most notable achievement came when he won a steeplechase race at Belmont Park on June 4, 1923, aboard a horse named Sweet Kiss. This victory was significant not only because of the unusual circumstances surrounding it but also because it marked a rare win for a relatively unknown jockey in a major steeplechase event, which typically featured horses like Gallant Fox and Omaha (horse).

● Death and Legacy

Tragically, Frank Hayes died on June 4, 1923, the same day he won the steeplechase race at Belmont Park. His death was caused by a heart attack he suffered during the race, but his body remained on the horse until the finish line, where he was declared the winner. This bizarre incident has become a famous anecdote in the history of horse racing, often mentioned alongside other unusual events like the Disaster of 1955 and the Ruffian-Foolish Pleasure match race. Hayes' legacy extends beyond his unusual win, as he is also remembered for his dedication to the sport and his association with prominent figures like Sam Hildreth and James Rowe Jr.. His story has been referenced in various media, including films like Seabiscuit (film) and The Black Stallion (film).

● Racing Achievements

Frank Hayes' racing career, although cut short, included several notable achievements. He won a total of 12 races during his time as a jockey, including the aforementioned steeplechase event at Belmont Park. Hayes also finished in the money in numerous other races, often competing against top jockeys like Johnny Longden and Ted Atkinson. His association with prominent owners and trainers like William R. Coe and Sunny Jim Fitzsimmons helped him gain access to better horses and more competitive races, including the Travers Stakes and the Jockey Club Gold Cup. Despite his relatively short career, Hayes left a lasting impact on the world of horse racing, with his name often mentioned alongside other famous jockeys like Isaac Murphy and Eddie Arcaro. Category:American jockeys