Golden Tempo wins the 158th running of the Belmont Stakes after winning the Kentucky Derby
Golden Tempo Wins 158th Belmont Stakes, Completes Triple Crown Journey
Golden Tempo wins the 158th running – Golden Tempo’s triumph at the 158th Belmont Stakes capped off a historic Triple Crown run, as the horse claimed victory just weeks after winning the Kentucky Derby. This win not only solidified Golden Tempo’s place among the elite in thoroughbred racing but also marked a pivotal moment for trainer Cherie DeVaux, who became the first woman to lead a Derby winner to the Belmont podium. The race, held at Saratoga Race Course, was a testament to the team’s strategy and the horse’s resilience, with jockey Jose Ortiz playing a key role in guiding Golden Tempo to success.
A Milestone for Female Trailblazers
DeVaux’s achievement in the 158th Belmont Stakes is a landmark for women in horse racing. Her coaching of Golden Tempo, which won the Kentucky Derby, has already been celebrated as a breakthrough in a male-dominated field. Now, with this latest victory, she joins a rare group of female trainers who have made significant impacts in the sport. “It’s a dream come true,” DeVaux said. “Golden Tempo is the one who earned it, but I’m honored to be part of this history.”
“Golden Tempo is amazing,” said DeVaux, a native of Saratoga Springs. “Jose’s partnership with the horse was crucial. He had to adjust to the new track conditions, but his focus and confidence paid off.”
The decision to host the 158th Belmont Stakes at Saratoga, rather than Belmont Park, added a layer of significance to the event. The temporary move was necessitated by the demolition of Belmont Park, which is undergoing a major rebuild. Fans and participants recognized the symbolic importance of the relocation, as Saratoga has long been a hub for horse racing and now played host to a defining moment in the sport’s history.
Golden Tempo’s Performance and Strategy
Despite a more challenging race setup at Saratoga, Golden Tempo showcased its versatility by adapting to the track’s unique conditions. The 1 1/4-mile race was completed in a time of 2:03.49, with the horse overtaking competitors in the final stretch to secure victory. Commandment and Renegade, the favorites and Derby runner-up, finished second and third, respectively, but Golden Tempo’s dominance was clear throughout the event.
“He wasn’t going to get the same rhythm as in the Derby,” Ortiz explained. “But today, he proved he could handle anything. His sharpness and focus were exactly what we needed.”
Ortiz’s confidence in Golden Tempo’s abilities was evident, and the horse’s performance reflected the preparation of both jockey and trainer. “He’s a natural leader,” Ortiz added. “Even when the pace was slower, he stayed composed and pushed through when it mattered most.” This synergy between rider and horse highlighted the strength of the team that brought the 158th Belmont Stakes to a thrilling conclusion.
A Legacy of Breaking Barriers
DeVaux’s journey to this moment was defined by her determination to break barriers in a field where women are often underrepresented. Her success with Golden Tempo in the Kentucky Derby and the Belmont Stakes underscores her growing influence as a trailblazer. “It’s overwhelming,” DeVaux said. “Golden Tempo is the real hero, but I’m proud to have helped make this possible.”
With the 158th Belmont Stakes now in the books, the legacy of this victory extends beyond the track. It represents a shift in the racing world, opening doors for future generations of female trainers and riders. The race’s history-making status is a reflection of both the horse’s talent and the team’s collective effort to redefine what’s possible in the sport.