May 2, 2026 marked a turning point in the history of the Kentucky Derby. Cherie DeVaux became the first female trainer to win the Kentucky Derby. The horse, Golden Tempo, brought DeVaux to victory winning the Triple Crown race. This was an incredible breakthrough as the horse had started out the race in last place. Cherie DeVaux is now the second female trainer to win a Triple Crown Race.
Cherie DeVaux, born December 2, 1981, has been training horses independently since 2018. She started out as an assistant to Chad Brown who is known as the top horse trainer. This female trainer is originally from Saratoga Springs, New York where she began her career working with horses. She is currently based in Kentucky where she spends her time working with these horses.
The Kentucky Derby is an American tradition founded by Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr. This is the longest continually held sporting event in American history. Prestigious horses compete in a two minute race. There are many races such as Triple Crown, Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stakes, however, the main race is the Kentucky Derby.
A female trainer winning this race became a major breakthrough as this sporting event is typically dominated by males. When asked about her win, DeVaux stated, “I consider myself a horse trainer, and I just happen to be a female,”. This female trainer is an inspiration to so many, as it is possible to succeed even when the stakes are set low. Golden Tempo wasn’t expected to win but the horse broke all odds. Take this victory as your motivation to follow your own passion and beat the odds in your story.
