Jockey Jose Ortiz rode Golden Tempo to victory in the 2026 Kentucky Derby on May 2 [1].

The win marks a career milestone for Ortiz and a historic achievement for trainer Cherie DeVaux and the horse's owners [2].

The 152nd running of the race [3] took place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. Golden Tempo crossed the finish line with a winning time of 2:01.45 [3]. The victory came after a competitive stretch where the crowd erupted as Golden Tempo took the lead in the final moments [3].

Ortiz said the win was the culmination of a lifelong ambition. He said that he grew up watching the Derby and was able to share the moment with his family, calling it a dream come true [4].

"We made history today; Golden Tempo and I gave the fans a race to remember," Ortiz said [2].

The victory establishes Golden Tempo as a premier force in Thoroughbred racing. The win was a collaborative effort between the jockey, the owners, and the training strategy implemented by DeVaux [2].

“"I grew up watching the Derby and now I'm here with my family – it’s a dream come true."”

The victory for Golden Tempo and Jose Ortiz reinforces the prestige of the Kentucky Derby as a pinnacle of professional achievement in horse racing. By securing a win in the 152nd running, Ortiz enters the history books of Churchill Downs, while the success of trainer Cherie DeVaux highlights the critical role of strategic conditioning in high-stakes Thoroughbred events.