Kentucky Derby 2026 video: Kentucky Derby 2026 viral video: Watch emotions run high as ‘Run for the Roses’ at Churchill Downs becomes ‘the most exciting two minutes in sports’
Golden Tempo charged from the back of the pack to victory in the 152nd Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on Saturday, giving trainer Cherie DeVaux a historic victory as the first woman to saddle the winner of America’s most famous horse race.
Posted at 24-1, Golden Pace slowly broke under Jose Ortiz and followed the 18-horse field through traffic and launched a late charge to claim the “Run for the Roses” on a fast course in cool, cloudy conditions in Louisville.
Ortiz’s brother Irad Ortiz Jr.’s 5-1 favorite Renegade finished second, while 70-1 long shot Ocelli finished third in front of a crowd of 150,415.
DeVaux, who was almost speechless after making history, said he hoped the victory would resonate beyond the races. “I don’t even have words right now,” DeVaux said in a post-race interview. “I’m happy to be able to represent women everywhere. We can do anything we set our minds to,” she said.
DeVaux said he wasn’t alarmed when Golden Tempo returned early and was confident the three-year-old colt could close. “I was more focused on the tempo in front of him,” he said.
Ortiz Won Against Brother Irad
Ortiz, who won the Kentucky Derby for the first time, was forced to crash into older brother Irad after Renegade also launched a late bid following early traffic from the track.
“This is a dream come true. This is the biggest race in the world for me. I’m very happy,” Ortiz said. Ortiz became emotional as he thought about winning with his parents in attendance.
“I ride almost every year, but winning here with my mom and dad is so special,” he said as tears began to stream down his face.
“I wish my grandfather was here, but I know he is looking down from heaven and happy to see me achieve my life’s goal.”
Ortiz said his brother should be proud of Renegade’s performance despite the defeat.
“I know this was his dream too, but it happened this way and I think he should be happy,” he said.
“His horse ran a very good race, he’s a very nice horse. But it was my day, Golden Tempo’s day, and I’m happy for Cherie and the ownership.”
The victory capped a memorable weekend for Jose Ortiz, who also won the Kentucky Oaks with Always a Runner on Friday.
“It’s very difficult to get a double,” he said.
“They were joking that there were 10 people in the room today who did it, it’s not impossible. I’m just so happy.”
