Golden Tempo Wins Kentucky Derby, Making History for Female Trainer Cherie DeVaux
Golden Tempo captured the 152nd Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, marking a historic moment as Cherie DeVaux became the first female trainer to win this prestigious race. The victory came in the opening leg of the Triple Crown, with Golden Tempo ridden by jockey Jose Ortiz.
Race Overview and Results
Golden Tempo started the race positioned at the back of the pack but made a strong charge down the stretch to secure the win in the 1 1/8-mile race. The horse entered the race with odds of 23-1. Finishing second was Renegade, ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr., the brother of Jose Ortiz. The long shot Ocelli, with odds of 70-1, took third place.
The race featured 18 horses after Great White was scratched late due to an incident that led to the horse flipping and throwing its jockey. This decision was made by track veterinarians. Great White had entered the field after another horse, Silent Tactic, was ruled out earlier because of a foot injury.
Cherie DeVaux’s Historic Achievement
Cherie DeVaux expressed her joy following the win, highlighting the performance of Jose Ortiz and the significance of the victory. She said, “I just can’t. Just so, so so happy for Golden Tempo. Jose did a wonderful job, a masterful job of getting him there. He was so far out of it.”
DeVaux is only the second female trainer to win any Triple Crown race, following Jena Antonucci’s win with Arcangelo in the 2023 Belmont Stakes. This Derby win came in DeVaux’s first opportunity, eight years after she started her own stable.
She also reflected on her role as a representative for women in the sport, stating, “I’m glad I can be a representative of all women everywhere that we can do anything we set our minds to.” DeVaux is the 18th woman to saddle a horse in the Kentucky Derby.
Jockey Jose Ortiz’s First Derby Win
Jose Ortiz secured his first Kentucky Derby win in his 11th attempt, demonstrating the skill that has made him successful at Churchill Downs. His victory came less than 24 hours after winning the Kentucky Oaks, the top race for 3-year-old fillies.
After the race, Ortiz acknowledged his brother Irad’s strong performance, saying, “I want [Irad Ortiz] to win the Derby, of course. I know it’s his dream as well. But it happened that way. I think he should be happy. His horse ran a very good race. He’s a very nice horse.”
Ortiz concluded, “Today’s my day and Golden Tempo’s day.”