Frank McCabe

Biography

Frank McCabe was stable foreman when Hall of Fame trainer James Rowe, Sr. split with the renowned Dwyer Brothers Stable. Promoted to the top spot, McCabe proceeded to train eight champions, including Hall of Fame members Hanover, Kingston, and Miss Woodford.

Born in Paterson, New Jersey, in 1859, McCabe was apprenticed to the stable of Col. David McDaniel. After some success as a rider — including a victory in the 1873 Saratoga Cup — McCabe bought and trained his own horses for a time before taking the post with Rowe. When placed in charge by the Dwyers, McCabe guided Miss Woodford to six wins in seven starts in her final championship year, 1886.

That same year, McCabe orchestrated a dazzling undefeated season of 13 races for the champion 2-year-old colt Tremont and won the Belmont and Travers with Inspector B. The 3-year-old filly Dewdrop rounded out McCabe’s year of four champions.

In 1887, McCabe sent a new champion, Hanover, through a campaign of 20 wins from 27 starts, including a 17-race win streak that featured the Belmont and the Swift, defeating Firenze and Kingston in the later. In 1888, champion Sir Dixon matched Hanover’s 15-length margin in winning the Belmont, giving McCabe his third consecutive win in the race. Sir Dixon also gave McCabe his second Travers, a race he won a third time in 1890 with Sir John.

McCabe trained Kingston for four years, during which time during which time he won 46 of 54 races.

Achievements

Triple Crown Highlights

Won the 1886 Belmont Stakes — Inspector B. 
Won the 1887 Belmont Stakes — Hanover
Won the 1888 Belmont Stakes — Sir Dixon
Won the 1899 Preakness Stakes — Half Time

Other Highlights

Won the Travers Stakes — 1886, 1888, 1890