Max Hirsch was a prominent figure in the sport. He achieved remarkable feats, such as winning the 1934 Travers Stakes with Observant and training Bold Venture, the winner of the 1936 Kentucky Derby and Preakness. His career was on a path to the Hall of Fame. He trained horses for some of the wealthiest and most influential Americans, including Arnold Rothstein. In 1934, he became the trainer for the King Ranch, which would soon become one of the most successful stables in America.

A Father's Legacy and a Daughter's Historic Victory

Max Hirsch's Early Achievements

Max Hirsch's name became synonymous with success in the sport. His victories in prestigious races like the 1934 Travers Stakes and training Bold Venture showcased his exceptional skills. His reputation grew as he trained horses for the elite, leaving an indelible mark on the racing world.

He was well on his way to a Hall of Fame career, and his achievements inspired many. His ability to train horses for the richest and most powerful Americans added to his allure. The King Ranch, under his tutelage, was set to become a force to be reckoned with.

Mary Hirsch's Historic Milestone

In 1934, Max Hirsch's daughter, Mary, made history. She became the first woman in the country licensed to train Thoroughbred racehorses. Growing up around horses, she naturally took to riding jumpers before deciding to pursue training.

Owners were quick to recognize her talent despite any biases against her gender. As the New York Times reported, "her father thinks enough of her judgement to consult with her." This trust from her father gave her the confidence to excel in her chosen field.

Anne Corning and Thanksgiving

Anne Corning, the wife of Congressman Parker Corning, was a horse racing fan and owned several horses. She developed a passion for the sport and asked Mary Hirsch to train one of their horses, Thanksgiving, a bay colt.

They stabled Thanksgiving with Max Hirsch's horses at Saratoga in preparation for his 2-year-old season. However, a lightning storm in July wreaked havoc on the barn, striking several horses, including Thanksgiving. Max Hirsch felt the lightning strike his foot as he sat in his kitchen near the barn.

Thanksgiving's Struggles and Promises

Thanksgiving recovered from the lightning strike and showed promise as a 2-year-old, winning two of five starts. But as a 3-year-old, he struggled, not winning a single race by June.

Despite not winning, he raised eyebrows with his consistent performances. Joe Palmer listed him among the year's best horses, and Elizabeth Grinnell praised his interest. Thanksgiving ran third in the Yankee Handicap and was only a half-length behind Stagehand in the Empire City Handicap.

The 1938 Travers Stakes

In 1938, Mary Hirsch entered Thanksgiving in the Travers Stakes at Saratoga. He had the opportunity to face his past foes, including Stagehand and Cravat. Bull Lea was the favorite at 6-to-5, and Stagehand was the second choice at 7-to-2.

Thanksgiving broke well and led the field, but the fans were unsure if he could maintain the lead. Stagehand was a deep closer, and Jolly Tar was a longshot. Thanksgiving picked up his pace in the stretch, and his jockey, Eddie Arcaro, urged him forward. He finished six lengths ahead of the rest of the field, making history as the first female-trained winner.

Mary Hirsch's achievement inspired a flood of applications for training licenses from women. Thanksgiving proved that lightning can indeed strike twice, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.