Cherie DeVaux Becomes First Woman to Train Kentucky Derby Winner

Cherie DeVaux made history on Saturday as the first woman to train a Kentucky Derby winner when Golden Tempo surged from last place to claim victory in the 152nd Run for the Roses at Churchill Downs. The 44-year-old trainer, who earned her license in 2018 after years of working as an assistant and stable worker, saw her horse cross the finish line ahead of favorite Renegade in a time of 2:02.27.

Golden Tempo, ridden by jockey Jose Ortiz, overcame long odds of 23-1 to win the 1 1/4-mile race before a crowd of more than 100,000 spectators. Ortiz, who defeated his brother Irad Ortiz Jr. aboard Renegade, celebrated his first Kentucky Derby win on his 11th attempt. “I just can’t. Just so, so, so happy for Golden Tempo. Jose did a wonderful job, a masterful job of getting him there,” DeVaux said after the race.

DeVaux’s journey to this historic moment began over a decade ago, training other people’s horses and dreaming of leading her own stable. After working under the late Chuck Simon and assistant training for Chad Brown, she decided to go solo in 2018, motivated by a desire for a more balanced personal life. Her initial plan was to test her abilities for three years, but she won her first race within 11 months. Despite pandemic-related setbacks, she persevered, eventually capturing the Breeders’ Cup in 2024.

Before DeVaux, the closest a woman had come to winning the Derby was Shelley Riley, whose horse Casual Lies finished second in 1992. DeVaux is only the second female trainer to win any Triple Crown race, following Jena Antonucci’s 2023 Belmont Stakes victory with Arcangelo.

Reflecting on her achievement, DeVaux emphasized the significance of her role as a trailblazer. “I’m glad I can be a representative of all women everywhere that we can do anything we set our minds to,” she said. She acknowledged the unequal standards women face in the industry but expressed hope that her success would inspire others. “You can dream big and you can pivot, you can come from one place and make yourself a part of history.”

Golden Tempo’s win earned a share of the $5 million purse, with the winner’s share totaling $3.1 million. Typically, the owner receives 80% of the winnings, while the jockey and trainer split the remaining 20%. DeVaux has yet to decide whether Golden Tempo will compete in the Preakness Stakes on May 16, stating she will assess the horse’s condition before making a decision.

The Kentucky Derby field was reduced to 18 horses after several scratches, including Great White, who was withdrawn following an incident that led to his jockey being thrown. The Derby remains the first leg of the Triple Crown, which also includes the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes. The last Triple Crown winner was Justify in 2018.