Golden Tempo Makes History: A Female Trainer's Triumph at the 152nd Kentucky Derby
Golden Tempo, a surprise 23-1 longshot, made history by winning the 152nd Kentucky Derby in a thrilling photo finish. Trained by Cherie DeVaux, the victory marked the first time a female trainer had won the prestigious race. Jockey Jose Ortiz, also a first-time Kentucky Derby winner, guided Golden Tempo to victory, narrowly beating his brother, Irad Ortiz Jr., who finished second on Renegade. The race saw longshot Ocelli claim third place, with Chief Wallaby in fourth. The unexpected outcome led to high payouts for bettors, including an $11,250.78 return for a winning $1 trifecta ticket.
Golden Tempo, a son of Curlin, was bred by Phipps Stable and St. Elias Stables. The horse's journey to the Kentucky Derby included wins at Fair Grounds and strong performances in the Lecomte, Risen Star Stakes, and Louisiana Derby. Known for his come-from-behind running style, Golden Tempo overcame his outside draw to secure the victory. Ortiz's strategic riding and Golden Tempo's late surge propelled them to the winner's circle, creating an emotional moment for DeVaux and the owners.
The owners, Phipps Stable and St. Elias Stables, expressed their confidence in DeVaux's training abilities and praised Golden Tempo's performance. The horse's last-to-first tactics were executed as planned, with Ortiz delivering a stellar ride to secure the win. DeVaux's entry into the training ranks was inspired by her husband's encouragement, leading to this remarkable achievement at the Kentucky Derby. The future plans for Golden Tempo, including a potential run in the Preakness Stakes, are yet to be determined, pending discussions with the trainer.
The 152nd Kentucky Derby showcased a field of international contenders, with horses like Six Speed, Danon Bourbon, and Wonder Dean vying for victory. Despite early frontrunners from overseas, it was Golden Tempo who emerged triumphant in the end. The race faced challenges with multiple scratches and last-minute changes to the field, adding to the unpredictability of the event. As Golden Tempo crossed the finish line, the historic win highlighted the excitement and competitiveness of America's most famous horse race.
In conclusion, Golden Tempo's unexpected triumph at the 152nd Kentucky Derby captivated fans and made history with Cherie DeVaux becoming the first female trainer to win the prestigious event. The thrilling finish, led by jockey Jose Ortiz, showcased the resilience and talent of the underdog horse, solidifying its place in racing lore. As the racing world awaits Golden Tempo's next steps, the Kentucky Derby victory will be remembered as a remarkable achievement for all involved.