In a dramatic final stretch at the 2026 Kentucky Derby, horse trainer Cherrie DeVaux secured her place in history as the first woman to win this prestigious race. Starting from last place and overcoming long odds, Golden Tempo raced to a stunning finish under jockey Jose Ortiz’s expert guidance.
- Golden Tempo was in last place entering the final turn
- Trainer Cherrie DeVaux became the first female Kentucky Derby winner
- Jockey Jose Ortiz earned his first Derby victory after 10 tries
What happened
The 2026 Kentucky Derby unfolded as a dramatic race where Golden Tempo, considered an underdog with 23-1 odds, overcame significant challenges to win. Despite battling a heel injury and starting from the 19th post, jockey Jose Ortiz skillfully maneuvered the horse from last place, overtaking competitors one by one in the final stretch. This thrilling finish captured the attention of racing fans and commentators alike.
Trainer Cherrie DeVaux watched closely from the rails as the horse surged ahead to win by a nose against the race favorite Renegade. This victory was historic because it marked the first time a female trainer took home the Kentucky Derby title, adding a momentous chapter to the legacy of the event.
Why it feels good
DeVaux's victory resonates beyond the racetrack as a symbol of perseverance and breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated sport. With a background shaped by a large family and decades of dedication to horse racing, she exemplifies tenacity and passion. Her win serves as encouragement for women and girls everywhere, illustrating that determination and belief can lead to achieving big dreams.
The win also highlights the important partnership between trainer, jockey, and horse. Ortiz, who had tried ten times before without a win, and Golden Tempo, despite physical setbacks, together proved that past challenges do not define future success. Their story inspires hope and excitement within the racing community and beyond.
What to enjoy or watch next
Fans can celebrate this landmark event by watching the exciting race highlights and the winner’s circle interview where DeVaux shares her joy and hopes for inspiring others. This moment also shines a light on upcoming talents and the evolving role of women in horse racing, a sport with a rich history ready for new chapters.
Looking ahead, keep an eye out for more breakthrough stories within the horse racing world, including other races in the Triple Crown series where women like DeVaux continue to make their mark. This historic win is a reminder that every race can hold a surprise and every competitor has a chance to change the game.