Cherie DeVaux became the first woman to train a Kentucky Derby winner on Saturday after Golden Tempo won the race [1, 2].
The victory breaks a long-standing gender barrier in one of the most prestigious events in U.S. sports. By securing the win, DeVaux establishes a historical precedent for female trainers at the highest level of thoroughbred racing.
The 152nd running of the Kentucky Derby [1] took place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky [4, 5]. Golden Tempo entered the final stretch in a challenging position, having rallied from the back of the pack [6]. The horse eventually edged out a competitor named Renegade to claim the victory [6].
DeVaux's achievement marks the first time a female trainer has claimed a victory in the event since its inception [2, 3]. The race occurred on May 2, 2026 [3, 1]. The win was the result of a dramatic late-race surge that saw Golden Tempo move from last place to the finish line [6].
Industry observers said the win was significant within the context of the sport's history. While women have long been involved in the breeding and care of horses, the trainer's circle at the Kentucky Derby had remained exclusively male until this Saturday's event [2, 3].
“Cherie DeVaux became the first woman to train a Kentucky Derby winner”
This victory represents a systemic shift in the professional landscape of horse racing. By breaking a century-old ceiling at Churchill Downs, DeVaux's win provides a tangible blueprint for female trainers to achieve the sport's highest honors, potentially influencing future investments and opportunities for women in the industry.
