Golden Tempo’s Miraculous Comeback Secures 2026 Kentucky Derby: Cherie DeVaux Makes History as First Female Winner
By Staff Reporter | Louisville, KY – May 3, 2026
In a stunning upset that will be etched into horse racing lore, Golden Tempo, a 23-1 long shot, surged from dead last to claim victory in the 152nd Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on Saturday. The improbable win marked a historic milestone, as trainer Cherie DeVaux became the first woman to win America’s greatest race.
A Thrilling Last-to-First Rally
The 1.25-mile classic unfolded with high drama under clear skies and a crowd of over 150,000 roaring spectators. Golden Tempo, ridden by jockey Tyler Gaffalione, started sluggishly from post position 12, dropping back to the rear of the 20-horse field early on. As favorites like Monarch of the Glen (3-1) and Starlight Express (5-2) battled for the lead through blistering fractions, Golden Tempo conserved energy at the back.
Turning for home, Gaffalione asked for his mount’s best effort. Golden Tempo unleashed a breathtaking rally down the stretch, weaving through traffic and overtaking weary rivals in the final furlong. The colt crossed the wire first by 1¾ lengths in a time of 2:01.85, holding off a late charge from Thunder Bolt (8-1) and Desert Stormer (12-1).
“He was just waiting for his moment. From the rail, I knew we had the horse to do it,” Gaffalione said post-race, still catching his breath.
Cherie DeVaux Shatters the Glass Ceiling
Cherie DeVaux, 52, from her base in Lexington, Kentucky, etched her name into the history books. Previously known for consistent performers in graded stakes, DeVaux’s strategic preparation turned Golden Tempo into a Derby champion. Her victory ends a 152-year drought for female trainers at the Run for the Roses, following close calls by predecessors like Kathleen O’Connell and Linda Rice.
“This is for every woman who’s ever been told she couldn’t in this sport,” DeVaux beamed in the winner’s circle, garlanded with the iconic blanket of 400 white roses. Owner James T. “Jim” Delaney, a longtime supporter, praised her tenacity: “Cherie’s the real deal. She believed when no one else did.”
Key Race Details and Payouts
| Finish | Horse | Jockey | Odds |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Golden Tempo | Tyler Gaffalione | 23-1 |
| 2nd | Thunder Bolt | Flavien Prat | 8-1 |
| 3rd | Desert Stormer | Joel Rosario | 12-1 |
| 4th | Monarch of the Glen | Irad Ortiz Jr. | 3-1 |
| 5th | Starlight Express | Brian Hernandez Jr. | 5-2 |
Winning payouts reflected the surprise: $1 to win on Golden Tempo returned $48.60, with exactas paying $312.40 and trifectas a whopping $2,856. Superfectas soared to $18,420 for a $2 bet.
Golden Tempo’s Path to Glory
Bred in Kentucky by Calumet Farm, the 3-year-old son of Tempo Maker out of Golden Lass showed promise in allowance races before exploding onto the Derby trail. Key preps included a runaway win in the Florida Derby (G1) and a strong second in the Blue Grass Stakes (G1). DeVaux’s team managed a minor ankle issue that sidelined him briefly, opting for a conservative prep schedule.
The colt’s running style—patient stalker—proved perfect for the Derby’s chaos. “We trained him to finish, not fight early,” DeVaux explained. Churchill Downs’ lightning-fast track, aided by dry weather, favored closers.
Reactions from the Racing World
- Bob Baffert, six-time Derby winner: “Incredible run. Cherie’s done a masterful job.”
- Darrell Wayne Lucas, beaten favorite trainer: “We went too fast early. Hats off to them.”
- Churchill Downs CEO Bill Carstanjen: “A storybook Derby. Congratulations to all.”
Looking Ahead: Preakness and Beyond
Golden Tempo’s triumph catapults connections toward the Triple Crown trail. DeVaux confirmed interest in the Preakness Stakes on May 16 at Pimlico, though a two-week turnaround will test recovery. “He’s eating and galloping great. We’ll see,” she said.
The win nets $1.85 million from the $3.1 million purse, boosting Golden Tempo’s earnings over $2.5 million. Breeders and pinhookers eye his stud potential, with Tempo Maker’s line gaining value.
Legacy of a Barrier-Breaking Day
Saturday’s Derby transcends the result, symbolizing progress in a male-dominated industry. DeVaux joins legends like Ben Jones (six wins) while inspiring the next generation. As confetti rained and “My Old Kentucky Home” echoed, Golden Tempo’s story reminded all: in racing, anything is possible.
Additional reporting by racing desk. Photos courtesy of Churchill Downs.