DeVaux and Golden Tempo Claim Historic 152nd Run for the Roses

For the first time in its 152-year history, the Kentucky Derby has been won by a female trainer. Cherie DeVaux’s Golden Tempo charged home from the back of the field, defeating Renegade to secure a historic victory. 

DeVaux began training only eight years ago and became the 18th female to saddle a runner in the Kentucky Derby. 

After the race DeVaux was lost for words over the historic achievement she had accomplished.

“I don’t even have any words”, said DeVaux.

“I’m just so, so happy for Golden Tempo”.

DeVaux went on to say she was proud to be a role model for young women who dream of becoming a horse trainer.

“I’m glad I can be a representative for all women everywhere, that we can do anything we set our minds to”.

It was also an emotional first Kentucky Derby for one of America’s premier jockey’s Jose Ortiz. 

“It is a dream come true”, said Ortiz.

“I have my mum and dad here today, it’s very special.

“I just wish my grandpa was here, but I know he was watching from heaven”.

The day before the Derby, Ortiz won the Kentucky Oaks aboard Always A Runner, becoming the 11th jockey to complete the Oaks-Derby double. Jose’s older brother Irad rode Renegade who finished second.

The race itself panned out as many perceived to be. From the start, there was a blistering tempo set by Saudi Arabian international Six Speed, while the eventual winner, Golden Tempo, settled dead last and some 20+ lengths off the leader.

At the top of the straight, the leaders were unable to sustain their fast tempo and began to be picked off by the backmarkers.

Ranked outsider Ocelli took the lead with a furlong (200m) to go, but all eyes were fixated on Renegade and Golden Tempo in the middle of the track.

With 100m to go Renegade momentarily took the lead before Golden Tempo proved too strong and ran over the top of Renegade to win the Kentucky Derby by a neck.

A historic edition of the 152nd Kentucky Derby that will forever be etched into the history books.