The Golden Tempo wins Kentucky Derby story is one that will be remembered for years. In a thrilling race at Churchill Downs, Golden Tempo made an incredible comeback from the back of the pack to secure victory. More importantly, this win marked a historic moment as Cherie DeVaux became the first woman trainer to win the Kentucky Derby.
A Race to Remember
Golden Tempo, ridden by Jose Ortiz, started slow and stayed behind most of the race. With 18 horses competing, the odds were not in his favor. However, things changed dramatically in the final stretch. Golden Tempo moved past competitors one by one and overtook the favorite, Renegade, just before the finish line.
The race ended with a narrow win by a neck, and the crowd of over 100,000 people erupted in celebration. The final time for the race was 2:02.27, making it both exciting and competitive.
Cherie DeVaux Creates History
Cherie DeVaux’s achievement is more than just a win. It is a powerful moment in horse racing history. She is now among the few women to train a winner in a Triple Crown race. Her journey from an exercise rider to a Derby-winning trainer shows years of dedication and hard work.
DeVaux shared that seeing young girls inspired by her success made the moment even more meaningful. Her story proves that with determination, barriers can be broken.
Key Highlights of the Race
| Factor | Golden Tempo | Renegade |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Position | Back of the pack | Strong start |
| Odds | 23-1 | Favorite |
| Final Stretch Strategy | Outside lane surge | Inside pace |
| Result | Winner (by a neck) | Runner-up |
This comparison shows how strategy and timing played a crucial role in Golden Tempo’s win.
The Winning Strategy
Golden Tempo’s racing style is unique. He usually starts slow and builds momentum later. This strategy worked perfectly in this race. Jose Ortiz trusted the horse’s ability and chose the outside lane, which helped avoid crowding and allowed a smooth run.
DeVaux had also worked hard on the horse’s form before the race. Despite concerns about minor health issues, she remained confident. Her preparation clearly paid off.
Emotional Victory for the Team
The win was also emotional for Jose Ortiz, who had tried many times before winning the Derby. Achieving this milestone in his 11th attempt made it even more special. Having his family present added to the joy of the moment.
DeVaux, on the other hand, described the moment as almost unreal. From starting her career over two decades ago to reaching this level, the journey has been remarkable.
What’s Next for Golden Tempo?
After the big win, the next question is whether Golden Tempo will compete in the upcoming Preakness Stakes. The decision will depend on the horse’s condition in the coming days. DeVaux made it clear that the horse’s well-being comes first.
Conclusion
The Golden Tempo wins Kentucky Derby victory is not just about a race. It is about breaking barriers, smart strategy, and years of dedication. Cherie DeVaux’s success has opened doors for many and inspired a new generation. This historic moment proves that anything is possible with belief and hard work.