In a stunning and historic performance at Churchill Downs, Golden Tempo surged from last place to first to claim victory at the Kentucky Derby, delivering one of the most dramatic finishes in the race’s storied history. Jockey Jose Ortiz guided the longshot through the crowded field in a breathtaking stretch run, crossing the finish line to the disbelief and delight of the packed Louisville crowd. The victory instantly became one of the most talked-about moments in the Run for the Roses in recent memory.
Behind the triumph stands trainer Cherie DeVaux, who etched her name into the record books by becoming the first woman in history to train a Kentucky Derby winner. DeVaux, who has built a reputation as one of the most meticulous and dedicated conditioners in the sport, described the moment as surreal. Her achievement breaks a barrier that has stood for 150 years of Kentucky Derby history, marking a watershed moment not just for women in racing, but for the sport as a whole.
The victory was made all the more remarkable by Golden Tempo’s come-from-behind style. Settling near the back of the pack through the early stages of the mile-and-a-quarter classic, Ortiz patiently waited for his moment before unleashing the colt’s powerful closing kick. The performance drew immediate comparisons to some of the greatest stretch runs in Derby history, as Golden Tempo swept past rivals in the final furlong to claim the garland of roses.
Reactions from across the horse racing world poured in swiftly following the result, with many hailing DeVaux’s milestone as long overdue recognition of the vital role women play at every level of the sport. From owners and breeders to jockeys and trainers, women have been increasingly prominent in racing in recent decades, and DeVaux’s win at the sport’s most prestigious event is expected to inspire a new generation. The 2025 Kentucky Derby will be remembered not only for a spectacular race, but for the moment a glass ceiling finally shattered on the first Saturday in May.