Golden Tempo Wins Kentucky Derby 2026

 

Jockey Jose Ortiz, with "The Horse Whisperer" stenciled along his racing breeches legs, performed a stunning down the stretch come from behind charge to overtake twelve horses and win the Kentucky Derby. Amazing!

There is so much to unpack here. Jose, riding "Golden Tempo," at 23-1 closing odds, a longshot, was in last place as the pack entered the final turns. Jose's brother, Irad Ortiz Jr. was riding Renegade, the favorite in this race at 5-1 odds. 

It looked as if both brothers made outside charges around the same time with Irad pushing Renegade toward taking over the pack leaders. It would be another odds favorite winning another Kentucky Derby. But wait! Out of nowhere! Jose and Golden Tempo come barreling down from outside to overtake Irad and Renegade just seconds from the finish line. And it was Golden Tempo to finish by 3/4 length.

Results:

1. Golden Tempo (23-1)

2. Renegade (5-1)

3. Ocelli (70-1)

4. Chief Wallabee (7-1)

Just as stunning and celebratory is Golden Tempo's trainer Cherie DeVaux, who is the first female trainer to win the Kentucky Derby, with this being the 152nd race. Of the $3.1 million for the winner, 80% goes to the horse's owners. The trainer gets 10% and the jockey gets the remaining 10%. Way to go Cherie and Jose, well-earned and obviously well deserved.

But make no mistake, there is only one who will don the crown of Champion.

Golden Tempo  -  2026 Kentucky Derby Champion 

Is GOLDEN TEMPO the Best Closer? | Kentucky Derby Contender Profile 

Ortiz Wins 16 Races, Named Jockey of the Week - BloodHorse