The 152nd Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs featured a packed field, but one notable detail stands out - there are no female jockeys competing in this year’s Run for the Roses.
However, female representation made headlines thanks to trainer Cherie DeVaux, who entered the Derby with Golden Tempo and a chance to make history.
DeVaux arrived at Churchill Downs aiming to become the first woman ever to train a Kentucky Derby winner.
While the moment carried historic significance, DeVaux said she does not approach the challenge as a gender battle.
The trainer has already enjoyed major success in horse racing, including training a Breeders’ Cup winner, but she has made clear that winning the Kentucky Derby remains the defining goal of her career.
Golden Tempo and the competitive Derby field
Golden Tempo was a part of a highly competitive Derby lineup that has already undergone several late changes following scratches earlier in the week.
The race originally featured a full 20-horse field before The Puma, Fulleffort, Right to Party and Silent Tactic were scratched, allowing alternate horses into the field.
Golden Tempo remained one of the more intriguing entries because of DeVaux’s historic bid and the horse’s consistent rise through the Derby trail.
DeVaux embraces pressure and visibility
As Derby day approached, DeVaux acknowledged the importance of visibility for women in racing and encouraged others not to shy away from difficult opportunities.
The Kentucky Derby begins Saturday evening at Churchill Downs, with NBC coverage starting earlier in the afternoon and post time scheduled for 6:57 p.m. ET.
