LOUISVILLE, Ky. — In a historic triumph at the Kentucky Derby on Saturday, Golden Tempo raced to victory, marking a significant milestone for Cherie DeVaux as she became the first woman to train a winner of the prestigious opening leg of the Triple Crown.
The thrilling race saw Golden Tempo surge ahead in the final stretch, etching DeVaux’s name in the annals of racing history with a resounding win in the 1 1/8-mile event. Renegade secured second place, while the long-shot contender Ocelli finished in third.
DeVaux’s achievement follows in the footsteps of Jena Antonucci, who became the first female trainer to clinch a victory in any Triple Crown race with Arcangelo’s win at the 2023 Belmont Stakes. This Derby triumph came in DeVaux’s first attempt, capping an eight-year journey since she launched her own training stable.
Throughout the week leading up to the race, DeVaux transitioned from downplaying the significance of potentially becoming the first female Derby-winning trainer to embracing her role as a trailblazer. She acknowledges the inspiration her victory could provide to young girls aspiring to break into the sport. DeVaux is only the 18th woman to have ever saddled a horse in the Kentucky Derby.
Jockey Jose Ortiz exhibited the skill and determination that have made him a standout at Churchill Downs, earning his first Derby win on his 11th attempt. He narrowly bested his brother, Irad Ortiz Jr., who rode the runner-up, Renegade.
The race proceeded with a field of 18 horses after Great White was withdrawn at the last minute, following an incident where the horse flipped and unseated its jockey.
