Golden Tempo, a horse with considerable long-shot odds, surged from behind to claim victory in the 152nd Kentucky Derby. The win marks a significant moment for trainer Cherie DeVaux, who becomes the first woman to train a Kentucky Derby winner. Jockey Jose Ortiz guided Golden Tempo through a dramatic late-race rally to cross the finish line ahead of the competition.
The horse entered the race with odds ranging between 23-1 and 36-1 across various reports, underscoring the unexpected nature of its triumph. DeVaux, still processing the win, expressed elation, stating, "I don’t even have any words right now. He was so far out of it." She also reflected on the broader significance of her achievement, saying, "I’m glad I can be a representative of all women everywhere that we can do anything we set our minds do."
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Renegade finished second in the race, with Ocelli taking third place. The field was slightly depleted, with Great White being a late scratch after bucking and falling in the starting gate. Two other horses, Right to Party and Fulleffort, were also scratched.
This victory represents a historic achievement for DeVaux in the sport. The Kentucky Derby, run over 1 1/4 miles at Churchill Downs, saw jockey Jose Ortiz engage in a notable duel down the stretch, ultimately outmaneuvering his brother, Irad Ortiz Jr., who was riding Renegade.
