DeVaux Becomes First Female Derby Winner

Cherie DeVaux became the first female trainer to win the Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. Her horse, Golden Tempo, rallied from the back of the field to win the 1¼-mile race in 2:02.27.

DeVaux's victory marks her as only the second female trainer to win any Triple Crown race, following Jena Antonucci's 2023 Belmont Stakes win. Golden Tempo, ridden by Jose Ortiz, secured the win at odds of 23-1, passing favorite Renegade just before the finish line. Renegade placed second, with Ocelli finishing third.

The race proceeded with 18 horses after five scratches throughout the week, including Great White and The Puma on race day. This historic win occurred eight years after DeVaux established her own stable, making her the 18th woman to saddle a horse in the Kentucky Derby.