A Dramatic Rally Seals the Victory

In a finish that will be replayed countless times in horse racing lore, Golden Tempo surged from the back of the pack to claim the 152nd Kentucky Derby on May 2, 2026, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The bay colt, starting from post position 19 as a 23-1 longshot, dropped to last early before unleashing a powerful wide rally under jockey Jose Ortiz. He edged Renegade by a neck at the wire, covering the 1¼-mile distance in 2:02.27 on a fast dirt track. The crowd of over 150,000 erupted as the historic moment unfolded, marking the first victory for a female trainer in the race's 152-year history.

Cherie DeVaux, Golden Tempo's trainer, watched in disbelief as her charge delivered the breakthrough win. This triumph not only netted the connections $3.1 million from the $5 million purse but also shattered a significant barrier in the sport. DeVaux, who had openly dreamed of this achievement, became the 18th woman to saddle a starter in the Derby but the first to guide one to victory.

Cherie DeVaux: The Trailblazer Who Rewrote History

Cherie DeVaux's path to this monumental success is a testament to perseverance and passion in a male-dominated industry. Born in Saratoga Springs, New York—a hub of Thoroughbred racing—DeVaux initially pursued pre-med studies before pivoting to horses. She spent six years assisting trainer Chuck Simon and eight under Hall of Famer Chad Brown, honing her skills before earning her trainer's license in 2018. Her first winner came in March 2019, and since then, she has amassed seven Grade 1 victories, including a Breeders' Cup Mile winner and a 2025 champion turf mare.

Married to Central Kentucky bloodstock agent David DeVaux, she operates a boutique stable known for quality over quantity. Golden Tempo represented her biggest opportunity yet, and post-race, she reflected on the significance: her win inspires young women eyeing a career in training. In the winner's circle, draped in white roses, DeVaux kissed the trophy, joining legends like Ben Jones (six wins) and Bob Baffert (six wins) in the record books, albeit in a pioneering role.

Golden Tempo: Pedigree Power and Late Surge Ability

Bred by owners Phipps Stable and St. Elias Stables, Golden Tempo is a homebred bay colt sired by two-time Horse of the Year Curlin out of the Bernardini mare Carrumba. Curlin has sired multiple Derby contenders, including runners-up like Exaggerator and Good Magic, but Golden Tempo broke through for the first Derby win from this prolific line. Carrumba won at 1⅛ miles, underscoring the stamina in his pedigree suited for classic distances.

The colt entered the Derby with a 2-for-4 record, showcasing a signature late kick. His racing style—settling off the pace before closing strongly—proved ideal for the chaotic 20-horse field. At three years old, Golden Tempo has already earned over $3.4 million, positioning him as a Triple Crown contender.

Jose Ortiz: A Family Affair and Dream Ride

Puerto Rican native Jose Ortiz delivered a flawless ride, marking his first Kentucky Derby victory after 10 previous starts. Remarkably, his brother Irad Ortiz Jr., a two-time Eclipse Award winner, finished second aboard favorite Renegade—a poignant family moment. Jose, who also won the Kentucky Oaks the day prior, timed his move perfectly, asking Golden Tempo for his bid on the far turn and swinging wide for clear sailing.

Ortiz's career earnings soared past $300 million with this win, cementing his status among elite jockeys. Post-race, he called it "a dream come true," crediting DeVaux's preparation and the horse's heart.

Owners Celebrate a Homebred Masterpiece

Phipps Stable, represented by Daisy Phipps Pulito, and St. Elias Stable, owned by billionaire Vincent Viola (Florida Panthers owner), bred and raced Golden Tempo. The Phipps family has a storied history in racing, though 0-for-1 previously in the Derby. Viola, with a net worth exceeding $3 billion, added this Garland of Roses to his trophy case. Their partnership produced a horse that exceeded expectations, turning a solid contender into a superstar.

Race Results: Top Finishers and Betting Bonanza

The 152nd Derby delivered massive payouts for bettors who backed the longshot:

• 1st: Golden Tempo (19) - $48.24 win, $19.14 place, $11.90 show
• 2nd: Renegade (1) - $7.14 place, $5.45 show
• 3rd: Ocelli (22) - $36.34 show
• 4th: Chief Wallabee (12)
• 5th: Danon Bourbon
• 6th: Incredibolt

Exacta (19-1): $278.86 | Trifecta (19-1-22): $11,250.78 | Superfecta (19-1-22-12): $94,489.95. Churchill Downs saw a record $89 million in handle, up 1% from prior year, despite chilly, cloudy weather that didn't dampen spirits.

The Road to Churchill: Prep Race Dominance

Golden Tempo's campaign began promisingly at Fair Grounds:

• Dec. 20, 2025: Debut maiden win (6f, 1½ lengths, 5-2 odds)
• Jan. 17, 2026: Stakes win (¾ length, 5-2 odds)
• Lecomte Stakes (G3): Last-to-first victory, earning Derby points
• Risen Star Stakes (G2): 3rd, 6 lengths back
• Louisiana Derby (G2): 3rd, 1 length back

These efforts secured his spot, proving his affinity for the New Orleans oval before translating to Churchill Downs.

The Magic of the Kentucky Derby Tradition

Known as "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports," the Derby dates to 1875, drawing global attention with its pageantry—mint juleps, elaborate hats, "My Old Kentucky Home." This year's event featured 150,415 attendees, filling the historic twin spires venue despite cooler temperatures around 60°F. The race's prestige elevates 3-year-olds to stardom, launching Triple Crown bids.

Fans and Media Buzz: A Moment for the Ages

Social media exploded with reactions, praising DeVaux's milestone and Ortiz brothers' duel. Fans called it "storybook," with highlights going viral. Betting shops reported windfalls on exotic wagers. Media hailed it as a progressive step for racing, spotlighting diversity.

Triple Crown Dreams: Preakness and Beyond

Golden Tempo eyes the May 17 Preakness Stakes at Pimlico, two weeks rest aiding recovery. A win there sets up Belmont Stakes June 7. Trainer DeVaux remains cautious, prioritizing horse health amid grueling schedule. Odds for Triple Crown now +1200, reflecting momentum.

Lasting Legacy: Impact on Horse Racing

DeVaux's win shatters glass ceilings, encouraging female trainers. It underscores homebred success and Curlin's progeny potential. For fans, it's inspiration—proving underdogs triumph. As Churchill Downs quiets, anticipation builds for Golden Tempo's next chapter.

Photo by Chris Hardy on Unsplash