Cherie DeVaux always dreamed of training horses. For over ten years, she honed her skills by helping others. That dream became a stunning reality when she made history at the Kentucky Derby. On Saturday, her horse, Golden Tempo, triumphed, making DeVaux the first woman to train a Derby winner.
DeVaux’s path wasn’t easy. She started as a worker for Chuck Simon and later became an assistant trainer for Chad Brown. In 2018, she earned her trainer’s license and launched her own career. Initially, she planned to train on her own for three years, but she won her first race in just 11 months. The COVID-19 pandemic delayed her progress, yet she persisted and eventually captured the Breeder’s Cup in 2024.
This past Saturday was her first Derby, and it proved to be memorable. Golden Tempo started in last place but surged ahead to secure the victory. Jockey Jose Ortiz rode with skill, even defeating his brother, who rode the favored Renegade.
DeVaux expressed her joy shortly after the race: “I’m just so, so, so happy for Golden Tempo.” She acknowledged Ortiz’s faith in the horse, emphasizing how crucial his role was in their success.
Before DeVaux, the closest a woman had come to winning the Derby was Shelley Riley in 1992, who finished second. Another notable female trainer, Jena Antonucci, won the 2023 Belmont Stakes with Arcangelo. DeVaux had openly voiced her desire to be the first woman to win the Derby, highlighting the challenges women face in the racing industry.
Feeling the weight of her victory, DeVaux shared, “I’m glad I can be representative of women everywhere. We can do anything we set our minds to.” This sentiment resonated in the sports community, with many celebrating her achievement on social media.
Experts believe DeVaux’s victory could inspire more women to enter the horse racing world. According to a 2022 study by the Jockey Club, only about 9% of trainers in the thoroughbred industry are women. This win could encourage more female participation in what has historically been a male-dominated sport.
Looking to the future, DeVaux has not confirmed whether Golden Tempo will compete in the Preakness Stakes on May 16. She plans to evaluate the horse’s condition before deciding. But regardless of her next steps, DeVaux has already carved out her legacy.
“Being a woman in this industry, the standards aren’t always equal… I want to be a strong role model for those who aren’t like me,” she shared. Her victory is not just a personal achievement; it’s a message that women can defy odds, shatter glass ceilings, and make history.
As DeVaux put it succinctly, “You can dream big and you can pivot. You can come from one place and make yourself a part of history.” For those aspiring to break barriers, her journey is a powerful reminder that dreams can become reality with determination and hard work.
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