Cherie DeVaux has made history as the first female trainer to win the Kentucky Derby, achieving the milestone in the race's 152nd running. DeVaux, who trained the 25-1 long shot 'Golden Tempo,' described the victory as overwhelming, with fans and media attention pouring in. The win earned a purse of $3.1 million, but the horse will skip the Preakness Stakes to prepare for the Belmont Stakes on June 6.

DeVaux's Journey to the Winner's Circle

DeVaux's life has been deeply rooted in horse racing, with her family and husband also involved in the industry.. She starts her days at 4:30 a.m. and ends at 9 p.m., often going weeks without seeing her husband due to their demanding schedules. Despite the lack of vacations, DeVaux is committed to her passion, stating, "Training horses is number one to me."

The Overwhelming Response to a Historic Win

The historic victory has brought DeVaux a wave of attention, including fans stopping her for selfies and restaurant patrons giving her thumbs-up. she is now working with a United Talent Agency representative to manage speaking engagements and collaborations. DeVaux appreciates the positive reception but emphasizes that her primary focus remains on training horses.

Golden Tempo's Path to the Belmont Stakes

'Golden Tempo' and jockey Jose Ortiz will not compete in the Preakness Stakes, opting instead to rest and prepare for the Belmont Stakes on June 6. The decision reflects the strategic planning involved in managing a horse's performance and health,especially after a grueling race like the Kentucky Derby.

Industry Recognition and Future Plans

DeVaux has received praise from her peers for her dedication to the industry and her efforts to present horse racing in a positive light. She acknowledges the challenges and criticisms the industry faces but remains focused on her work. As she navigates her newfound fame, DeVaux is determined to balance her commitments, stating, "I have started to make time around Christmas."