Golden Tempo made history at the 152nd Kentucky Derby, crossing the finish line in 2:02.27 to claim the coveted garland of roses. The victory wasn't just about speed—it was a story of family rivalries, groundbreaking achievements, and a name with a rhythm all its own.
So, how did this champion get his name? Golden Tempo is named after his dam, Carrumba—a name itself inspired by dance. It's a fitting tribute for a horse that moved with such grace and power down the Churchill Downs stretch.
In the saddle was jockey Jose Ortiz, who finally broke his Derby drought. After starting 0-for-10 in the race—with his best previous finish being a second-place ride on Good Magic in 2018—Ortiz delivered when it mattered most. Adding a layer of family drama to the day, his older brother Irad Ortiz Jr. rode Renegade, the second-place finisher. The Ortiz brothers turned the homestretch into a family showdown for the ages.
Behind every great horse is a great trainer, and Cherie DeVaux etched her name into the history books as the first female trainer to win the Kentucky Derby. Golden Tempo entered the race as a 23-1 longshot, but DeVaux's preparation turned that underdog status into a triumph that will be remembered for generations.
The ownership team of Phipps Stable and St. Elias Stable also had their own stories to tell. Phipps Stable, making just their second Derby appearance, improved dramatically from a 17th-place finish in 2021. Meanwhile, St. Elias Stable celebrated their second Derby win, having previously won with Always Dreaming in 2017.
From the thunder of hooves to the roar of the crowd, Golden Tempo's victory was more than a race—it was a testament to the heart, history, and harmony that make the Kentucky Derby the most exciting two minutes in sports.
