Sherry Deveaux Realizes Her Dream
Sherry Deveaux has spent over a decade dedicated to helping others train horses, all the while nurturing her aspiration of one day calling the shots herself. That dream materialized recently when she made history as the first woman to train a winning horse in the Kentucky Derby. Golden Tempo triumphed at the 152nd running of the event held at Churchill Downs this past Saturday.
Golden Tempo Triumphs at Churchill Downs
The breakthrough came when jockey Jose Ortiz rode Golden Tempo to a stunning victory, overcoming late competition to secure first place. This milestone not only marks a significant achievement for Deveaux but also highlights the growing impact of women in horse racing.
A Journey Through the Ranks
Before establishing her own stable, Deveaux worked tirelessly in the industry, starting as a stablemate for the late Chuck Simon and then moving on to become an assistant trainer for Chad Brown. In 2018, she obtained her trainer’s license and ventured into an independent career.
From Assistant Trainer to Independent Success
Deveaux’s decision to go solo stemmed from a candid conversation with her husband. “I was burnt out from my job as an assistant trainer. I wanted to do something more for myself and have a little more private life,” she explained. Initially planning to evaluate her efforts after three years, she celebrated a victory just 11 months into her independent career. Despite setbacks during the pandemic, her persistence paid off with a win in the Breeders’ Cup in 2024.
Historic Kentucky Derby Performance
During the Kentucky Derby, Golden Tempo executed a remarkable late surge from last place, ultimately clinching the victory. Deveaux credited Ortiz for his skillful riding and ability to bring out the horse’s full potential. This win not only fulfilled her ambition but also stands as a pivotal moment in the annals of horse racing.
Breaking Barriers in Horse Racing
Prior to Deveaux, the closest a woman had come to training a Derby winner was Shelley Riley, who trained Casual Rise to a second-place finish in 1992. Jenna Antonucci made headlines in 2023 by winning the Belmont Stakes with Arcangelo, further highlighting the strides women are making in this traditionally male-dominated sport.
Setting New Standards
As she celebrated her victory, Deveaux expressed pride in representing women globally. She underscored the significance of her achievement, stating, “We can do anything we set our minds to.” Her success not only cements her legacy but also serves as inspiration for future generations of women in the industry, reinforcing the idea that they can aspire to and achieve greatness in any field.
Future Aspirations
With her Kentucky Derby win behind her, questions arise about the possibility of Deveaux becoming the first woman to secure a Triple Crown title. However, she remains cautious, opting to evaluate how Golden Tempo responds before making a decision about competing in the Preakness on May 16.
