In an exhilarating conclusion to the Triple Crown series, Golden Tempo clinched victory in the 158th Belmont Stakes on Saturday, marking a significant achievement for both the horse and trainer Cherie DeVaux. With jockey Jose Ortiz steering the way, Golden Tempo showcased remarkable endurance and speed at Saratoga Race Course, winning the race just five weeks after securing the Kentucky Derby.
A Stellar Performance
Golden Tempo’s journey to victory was marked by a powerful performance that saw the horse surge down the stretch, overtaking competitors to secure first place. Commandment, a strong contender, finished second, while the pre-race favourite, Renegade, settled for third. The race, covering 1 1/4 miles, was completed in a time of 2:03.49, which, while slower than the pace witnessed at Churchill Downs during the Derby, still highlighted Golden Tempo’s outstanding capability to close the gap effectively.
DeVaux’s triumph with Golden Tempo further establishes her as a pioneering figure in horse training, as she became the first woman to train a Kentucky Derby winner. This victory at the Belmont Stakes adds to her accolades, making her only the second woman in four years to achieve this feat, following Jena Antonucci’s success with Archangelo in 2023.
A Historic Setting
This year’s Belmont Stakes was particularly poignant, as it took place at Saratoga Race Course for the final time while the traditional venue undergoes renovations. Belmont Park, located on the border of Queens and Long Island, is currently being demolished and rebuilt, and the Belmont Stakes is set to return there next year. This year’s race at Saratoga has thus been a celebration of tradition and change, emphasising the resilience of the sport amidst physical transformations.
Cherie DeVaux, who grew up in Saratoga Springs, has deep ties to the area, enhancing the emotional weight of this victory. Her journey from local trainer to national acclaim highlights the vibrant equestrian culture that thrives in New York and beyond.
Looking Ahead
As the dust settles on this year’s Triple Crown, eyes will inevitably turn to the future of thoroughbred racing. Golden Tempo’s performance not only cements the horse’s place in history but also signifies the potential for DeVaux to become a dominant force in the sport. With her trailblazing achievements, she inspires a new generation of trainers, particularly women looking to make their mark in a traditionally male-dominated field.
The excitement generated by this year’s races may spur increased interest and investment in horse racing, potentially leading to a renaissance for the sport. As the Belmont Stakes returns to its home next year, the anticipation builds for what is sure to be another thrilling chapter in the history of horse racing.
Why it Matters
Golden Tempo’s victory is more than just a win; it’s a landmark moment for women in sports and serves as an inspiration for aspiring trainers everywhere. Cherie DeVaux’s achievements resonate far beyond the racetrack, signalling a shift in the industry and encouraging greater diversity within equestrian sports. As the Belmont Stakes prepares to return to Belmont Park, the narrative of resilience, innovation, and inclusivity in horse racing is set to unfold anew, captivating fans and participants alike.
