Golden Tempo wins Kentucky Derby and lifts value towards $25 million
Updated
Updated · Huddle Up | Joe Pompliano · May 4
Golden Tempo wins Kentucky Derby and lifts value towards $25 million
10 articles · Updated · Huddle Up | Joe Pompliano · May 4
The 23-1 long shot came from last on the final turn to win the 152nd Derby at Churchill Downs by a neck, while trainer Cherie DeVaux became the first woman to win it.
The victory brought a $3.1m first prize, with DeVaux and jockey Jose Ortiz each receiving $310,000 and owners Phipps Stable and St. Elias Stable splitting about $2.48m.
Because Golden Tempo was homebred and is by Curlin, analysts say future stud fees and syndication could generate $20m-$25m or more, depending on Triple Crown results and the performance of his offspring.
A Derby win created a $25M asset. Could a looming breeding cap battle destroy that value?
Beyond one horse's huge payday, can the racing industry survive competition from modern online betting?
Why does a billion-dollar industry rely on a breeding rule critics call dangerous and outdated?
Kentucky Derby 2026 Recap: Golden Tempo’s Come-From-Behind Victory and $25 Million Valuation
Overview
The 152nd Kentucky Derby on May 2, 2026, saw Golden Tempo, a 23-1 longshot, win in a thrilling come-from-behind finish, guided by jockey Jose Ortiz's patient strategy and backed by the colt's strong pedigree. This victory made Cherie DeVaux the first woman to train a Derby winner, marking a historic milestone in horse racing. Golden Tempo's win earned a $3.1 million prize, significantly boosting his breeding value to $25 million through a syndication model. While the decision for Golden Tempo to run in the upcoming Preakness Stakes remains pending, DeVaux’s focus on the horse’s well-being highlights a new era prioritizing both excellence and care in the sport.