Cherie DeVaux became the first female trainer to win the Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 2, 2026 [1, 3].

The victory represents a historic breakthrough for women in horse racing, shattering a gender barrier in one of the most prestigious sporting events in the U.S. [2, 4].

Golden Tempo, ridden by jockey Jose Ortiz [4], secured the win during the 152nd running of the race [1]. The event took place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky [1, 4]. While multiple sources confirm DeVaux's role as the first woman to train a winning horse in the Derby, the New York Post said she was the first female owner to win the race [4, 5].

Reports on the race dynamics vary. The New York Post said that Golden Tempo rallied from last place to secure the victory [5]. However, other reports from Yahoo Sports, US Magazine, and the Tennessean did not mention a last-place rally [2, 3, 4].

DeVaux's achievement marks a significant shift in the professional landscape of the sport. For over a century, the winner's circle at the Kentucky Derby had been dominated by men in the training role. The victory by Golden Tempo establishes a new precedent for female leadership in Thoroughbred racing [2, 4].

The win follows a trajectory of increasing female presence in the sport, though the top prize at Churchill Downs had remained elusive until this single event [2]. The result puts a spotlight on the training, and preparation methods DeVaux used to guide Golden Tempo to the finish line [1, 4].

“Cherie DeVaux became the first female trainer to win the Kentucky Derby”

This victory disrupts a long-standing gender imbalance in the highest echelon of American horse racing. By becoming the first female trainer to win the Kentucky Derby, DeVaux proves that women can reach the pinnacle of the sport's most demanding discipline, potentially opening doors for more female trainers to receive high-profile opportunities and ownership stakes in elite Thoroughbreds.