The 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby delivered a historic finish May 2 as Cherie DeVaux became the first female trainer to win the Derby after her horse, Golden Tempo, galloped from the back of the pack to the finish line.
Going into the race at 23-1 odds, Golden Tempo was not considered a favorite. This changed in the final stretch when jockey Jose Ortiz guided Golden Tempo to secure the victory with a winning time of 2:02.27.
During DeVaux’s post-win interview with The Guardian she said, “I don’t even have any words right now,” DeVaux said, “Just so, so happy for Golden Tempo.”
The victory marked a milestone for horse racing, a sport traditionally dominated by male trainers. DeVaux, who started her own stable eight years ago, said she hopes the moment inspires younger generations.
“I’m glad I can be a representative of all women everywhere that we can do anything we set our minds to,” DeVaux said.
The race itself was dramatic from start to finish and a good watch for all. Golden Tempo trailed early before making a powerful push down the stretch. Fans online described the comeback as “insane” and “one of the wildest Derby finishes in years.”
Ortiz also celebrated his first Kentucky Derby victory after 11 attempts. Adding to the emotional finish, his brother Irad Ortiz Jr. finished second aboard Renegade, the previous front-runner.
The win earned Golden Tempo’s ownership group a share of the Derby’s $5 million purse and secured DeVaux’s place in racing history. For many fans, however, the biggest takeaway was seeing a barrier finally broken after more than 150 years of the Run for the Roses.
