Cherie DeVaux’s landmark victory at the Kentucky Derby marks a significant chapter in the world of horse racing. On May 4, 2024, DeVaux became the first female trainer to win the famed race, guiding her horse Golden Tempo to a stunning come-from-behind victory. This moment represents not just a personal milestone for DeVaux but also a breakthrough for women within a sport long dominated by men.
The race occurred in optimal conditions at Churchill Downs, where the track was dry and fast, and the temperature hovered around a comfortable 54 degrees. Golden Tempo, ridden by jockey Jose Ortiz, began the race trailing the field. Yet, in the final moments, he surged ahead, crossing the finish line in a remarkable time of 2:02.57. This victory also marked Ortiz’s first win in the Derby after ten prior attempts, adding a layer of significance to both their achievements.
The odds were not in their favor—the horse entered the race as a longshot at 24-1. As Golden Tempo propelled itself forward, surpassing competitors, it became evident that DeVaux’s meticulous training had prepared the horse for this very moment. Starting her stable in 2018, DeVaux honed her craft under the mentorship of notable trainers like Chuck Simon and Chad Brown, gradually working her way up to this historic occasion. Her dedication has been unwavering, reflecting long hours of hard work alongside her husband, David Ingordo, a respected figure in racing.
In her post-race interview, DeVaux expressed disbelief and pride in paving the way for female trainers in this challenging industry. “I honestly don’t know, I’m just glad I could be a representative of all women everywhere that we can do anything we set our minds to,” she said. Her statement underscores her role as an inspirational figure for aspiring female trainers, illuminating the paths available to them.
DeVaux’s victory is not merely a personal achievement; it highlights a broader shift in the horse racing landscape. The Kentucky Derby has seen few female trainers—only 18 have ever entered a horse in its long history. Prior to DeVaux, Shelley Riley’s second-place finish in 1992 marked the closest a woman had come to a win. Now, DeVaux has rewritten that narrative.
Public reaction to DeVaux’s achievement, notably on social media, emphasizes the merit behind her victory. One tweet gained traction for stating, “For the first time ever, a FEMALE trainer WON the Kentucky Derby, with Golden Tempo. This is much different than something like the ‘first female VP’ as trainer Cherie DeVaux EARNED it.” This sentiment draws attention to how her win stems from skill and competence rather than mere tokenism.
The dynamics of the race added drama to the victory. With five horses scratched, including Great White, the field changed significantly, but Golden Tempo still managed to stand out. DeVaux and Ortiz demonstrated preparedness and strategy in seizing this opportunity, defying expectations along the way.
For Ortiz, the emotional weight of the win was compounded by racing against his brother, Irad Ortiz, who took a close second place aboard Renegade. “It’s a dream come true,” he remarked after crossing the finish line, expressing the layered significance of their family rivalry as well as the thrill of victory.
DeVaux’s success story is rooted in hard work and the support of her husband, Ingordo. She attributes much of her journey to his encouragement, reflecting on a pivotal moment in her career. “In the summer of 2017, I was kind of at a crossroads in life, and he told me that I owed it to myself to at least try,” she explained. This personal support structure has undeniably contributed to her rise in the sport.
The Kentucky Derby serves as the first leg of the Triple Crown, setting the stage for upcoming races. Golden Tempo’s triumph not only opens doors for further opportunities but also stands as a testament to DeVaux’s expertise and tenacity in an arena that continues to challenge women’s recognition. Her journey is essential to ongoing discussions about gender representation in sports, signaling a hopeful future for women across various fields.
As the excitement of this year’s Derby subsides, DeVaux’s win emerges not just as a celebration of success but as an illustration of merit and determination. Her path may well inspire industry leaders to consider the importance of inclusivity and the value of hard work in shaping careers. In the deeply rooted tradition of horse racing, Cherie DeVaux has not merely made history—she has redefined it, creating possibilities for future generations of women seeking to make their mark on the sport.
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