Historic Victory: Golden Tempo Wins Kentucky Derby Under Cherie DeVaux, Making Her the First Female Trainer to Claim the Title
Louisville, Kentucky — In a breathtaking display of skill, strategy, and sheer determination, Golden Tempo surged to victory at the 150th Kentucky Derby on Saturday, securing not only a place in horse racing history but also etching the name of Cherie DeVaux into the annals of the sport. DeVaux, a trailblazing trainer, became the first woman to train a Kentucky Derby winner, marking a monumental milestone in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
The historic moment unfolded at Churchill Downs, where Golden Tempo, a 12-1 outsider, defied the odds with a stunning late rally. Trailing at the back of the pack for much of the race, the chestnut colt unleashed a breathtaking burst of speed in the final furlough, overtaking the field to clinch the win. The electrifying finish left the crowd of over 150,000 spectators roaring in amazement and underscored the unpredictable drama that has long defined the Kentucky Derby.
For DeVaux, the victory was the culmination of a lifelong journey in horse racing—a journey marked by resilience, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Speaking to reporters after the race, the 39-year-old trainer struggled to find words, her voice tinged with emotion. “This is beyond anything I could have imagined,” she said. “Golden Tempo is an incredible horse, and this victory is a testament to the hard work of everyone on this team. To be the first woman to achieve this is humbling and overwhelming.”
Breaking Barriers in a Storied Sport
DeVaux’s historic achievement comes at a time when the horse racing industry is grappling with issues of diversity and inclusivity. While women have long been involved in the sport, their roles have often been overshadowed by their male counterparts. Female trainers have faced systemic barriers, from fewer opportunities to train top-tier horses to a lack of representation in leadership roles.
DeVaux’s rise to prominence is particularly noteworthy given her unconventional path. A native of Maryland, she began her career as an assistant trainer, working under some of the sport’s most respected figures, including Chad Brown. In 2020, she struck out on her own, establishing her stable and quickly earning a reputation for her meticulous attention to detail and ability to bring out the best in her horses.
Her success with Golden Tempo, a horse she acquired just over a year ago, is a testament to her expertise. Under her guidance, the colt has steadily improved, culminating in a dominant performance on the sport’s biggest stage. “Cherie has an incredible eye for talent and a unique ability to connect with horses,” said jockey John Velazquez, who piloted Golden Tempo to victory. “She deserves all the credit for this win.”
The Race: A Nail-Biting Finish
The 2024 Kentucky Derby lived up to its billing as “the most exciting two minutes in sports.” The race began in dramatic fashion, with early favorites jostling for position and setting a blistering pace. Golden Tempo, however, remained steady at the rear of the pack, biding his time under Velazquez’s expert guidance.
As the horses rounded the final turn, the crowd erupted in anticipation. Golden Tempo surged forward, weaving through the field with astonishing precision. In the final stretch, he pulled ahead of his rivals, crossing the finish line in 2:02.3—a time that ranks among the fastest in Derby history.
The victory was a sweet moment for owner Michael Lund Petersen, who celebrated his first Derby win. “Cherie and the entire team have done an incredible job,” Petersen said. “This is a dream come true, and I couldn’t be prouder of Golden Tempo.”
A Turning Point for Horse Racing
DeVaux’s historic win has been hailed as a turning point for horse racing, a sport that has faced criticism in recent years for issues ranging from animal welfare to a lack of diversity. Her success is seen as a powerful symbol of progress, inspiring a new generation of women and girls to pursue careers in the industry.
“Cherie’s victory is a reminder that talent knows no gender,” said Lisa Lazarus, CEO of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority. “This is a momentous day for the sport, and we hope it will open doors for more women to excel in horse racing.”
As celebrations continued into the night, DeVaux reflected on the significance of her achievement. “This isn’t just about me,” she said. “It’s about showing that anyone—regardless of their gender—can succeed in this sport if they’re willing to put in the work.”
Golden Tempo’s triumph and DeVaux’s historic milestone have added a new chapter to the storied legacy of the Kentucky Derby, proving once again that the sport is capable of delivering unforgettable moments of glory and inspiration.
While the future of horse racing remains uncertain, one thing is clear: Cherie DeVaux has cemented her place in history, and her victory is a beacon of hope for a sport in transition.
