Cherie DeVaux makes history as one of two women to win the prestigious race
Category: Sports
Golden Tempo made a remarkable comeback to win the 2026 Belmont Stakes, capturing the prestigious title at Saratoga Race Course on June 6. The horse, trained by Cherie DeVaux, surged from last place to first in a thrilling finish, marking DeVaux's second victory in the Triple Crown series after winning the Kentucky Derby in May.
This year's Belmont Stakes was particularly notable as it was the last time the race would be held at Saratoga before returning to its traditional venue, Belmont Park, in 2027. Golden Tempo, who had missed the Preakness Stakes after his Kentucky Derby triumph, entered the race with 9-2 odds, not the favorite but certainly a contender.
The race unfolded dramatically, with Golden Tempo trailing behind early leaders. As the race progressed, Powershift and Growth Equity initially took the lead, but it was Golden Tempo's late push that turned the tide. At 7:04 p.m., the race concluded with Golden Tempo crossing the finish line first, followed closely by Commandment in second and Renegade in third.
DeVaux's historic win solidifies her place in horse racing history. She expressed her disbelief after the race, stating, "I need to name my next horse 'Amazing' after everything that has happened today." This sentiment reflects the excitement and unpredictability that horse racing often brings.
The finishing order for the Belmont Stakes was as follows: 1st Golden Tempo, 2nd Commandment, 3rd Renegade, 4th Chief Wallabee, 5th Emergent Market, 6th Growth Equity, 7th Vitruvian Man, 8th Ottinho, and 9th Powershift. The race was characterized by its competitive spirit, particularly with Renegade entering as the favorite at 2-1 odds, fresh off a strong performance at the Kentucky Derby.
This year, the Belmont Stakes was not just about the horses but also about the historical significance of women in the sport. DeVaux's achievement alongside Jena Antonucci, who also made history as a female trainer, showcases the growing impact of women in horse racing. As the sport evolves, these milestones are becoming increasingly important.
The Belmont Stakes, known as the "Test of the Champion," is the final leg of the American Triple Crown series, which also includes the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes. Traditionally held at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York, the race is known for its grueling distance of one and a half miles, making it a true test of endurance for both horses and jockeys.
This year marked a shift in tradition, as the race was hosted at Saratoga Race Course for the final time before its return to Belmont Park in 2027. The shorter track at Saratoga added an interesting dynamic to the race, influencing strategies and outcomes. The Belmont Stakes is often seen as the most exciting of the Triple Crown races, capable of producing a Triple Crown winner, though that was not the case this year.
Golden Tempo's decision to skip the Preakness after winning the Kentucky Derby allowed the horse to rest and prepare for the Belmont Stakes. The strategy paid off, as Golden Tempo's performance demonstrated resilience and skill. This victory adds to his accolades and shows the value of strategic decision-making in the sport.
Looking ahead, the focus will shift back to Belmont Park, where preparations for the 2027 Belmont Stakes are already underway. The return to Belmont Park will bring renewed excitement and anticipation among fans and trainers alike. Golden Tempo's victory could set the stage for an intriguing next season, as he may continue to compete in future races.
As for Cherie DeVaux, her growing reputation as a leading trainer in the sport will likely attract more attention and potential partnerships. With two major wins under her belt, DeVaux is positioning herself as a formidable force in horse racing.
The Belmont Stakes celebrates the horses and their trainers and serves as a reminder of the rich history and tradition of horse racing in America. As the sport evolves, the contributions of women like DeVaux pave the way for future generations of trainers and jockeys. The excitement surrounding this year’s Belmont Stakes will undoubtedly resonate as fans look forward to the next chapter in this storied event.
Golden Tempo's next race has not yet been announced, but fans and analysts alike will follow closely closely to see how this champion continues to perform in the coming months. As the horse racing season progresses, the spotlight will remain on the talented horses and their trainers, shaping the future of this beloved sport.