As Golden Tempo worked its way from the back of the pack and crossed the finish line for one of the biggest upsets in Kentucky Derby history, a pair of Little League® alumnus — trainer, Cherie DeVaux – Englewood Area (Fla.) LL and jockey, Jose Ortiz – La Gloria LL (San Juan, P.R.) — also earned their roses, turning their dreams into reality.
One of the most notable storylines of the iconic event coming out of Golden Tempo’s trip to the winner’s circle came as DeVaux became the first female trainer in history to win the Kentucky Derby, cementing herself in horse racing immortality. While her early days were spent on the Little League diamond in Florida, it was her hard work and dedication over the years that led her to this iconic victory, making her an inspiration for Girls with Game® across the nation.
Throughout his racing career, Ortiz established himself as one of the top riders in the United States and has achieved significant wins in Triple Crown races and other prestigious events, including wins at the 2017 Belmont Stakes, 2022 Preakness Stakes, and now cementing his first career win at the Kentucky Derby.
While the win was an incredible moment for Jose, the moment was even more special as his own brother, Irad (also a graduate of La Gloria LL), finished the race right beside him for a second-place victory as their parents watched on from the stands.
It was an incredible race, start to finish, as Golden Tempo rallied all the way back from last place to take the first leg of the Triple Crown. With the victory, DeVaux and her team must now decide if Golden Tempo will be back in action on Saturday, May 16, 2026, to compete for the second leg in the Triple Crown Series at the Preakness Stakes.
NOTE: If you know of a notable Little League graduate missing from this list, please complete the above Little League Alumni Submission form.