The Kentucky Derby and Oaks: A Trainer's Dream, A Horse's Destiny
Cherie DeVaux, a trainer with high aspirations, boldly declared her expectations for the upcoming Kentucky Derby and Oaks at Churchill Downs. She envisioned her stable's equine stars shining bright, but the road to glory is never easy. And this is where the story takes an exciting twist.
On January 17th, at the Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots, DeVaux witnessed a thrilling display of talent as her two 3-year-old colts, Golden Tempo and Mesquite, stormed to a 1-2 finish in the Lecomte Stakes. It was a breathtaking moment, but the real drama was yet to unfold.
Golden Tempo, a slow starter, showcased a patient ride by Jose Ortiz, hugging the inside rail. Meanwhile, Mesquite, under Flavien Prat, took a wider path. As the race reached its climax, they both unleashed their power, leaving Carson Street and Crown the Buckeye in their wake. Golden Tempo, in a stunning last-to-first rally, secured victory by a length, with a time of 1:44.98 on the fast track.
Ortiz, the jockey, revealed his strategy: "I followed Mesquite until the crucial moment, then made my move." This tactical decision paid off, but it also sparked a debate: Was it a calculated risk or a stroke of luck?
Golden Tempo, the favorite, rewarded his backers with a $7.40 payout for a $2 win bet. Mesquite, in his third career start, finished a respectable second. Carson Street faded to third, followed by Chip Honcho and Quality Mischief.
The Lecomte Stakes, a pivotal race, awarded 42 qualifying points for the Derby, propelling Golden Tempo to second place on the leaderboard. But here's where it gets controversial—two Kentucky Derby winners this century, War Emblem and Mandaloun, had also competed in the Lecomte, yet neither won it. Is the Lecomte a stepping stone or a curse for Derby contenders?
Golden Tempo, a bay colt, boasts an impressive pedigree. He's the son of Curlin, a renowned classic-winning sire, and Carrumba, a grade 1-placed, graded stakes winner. This victory marked a significant milestone for the young colt, who now has the racing world's attention.
In another thrilling race, the Silverbulletday Stakes, Taken by the Wind remained undefeated in three starts. She set a comfortable pace and held off Luv Your Neighbor and Atropa to win by a neck. This victory was especially sweet, as she had been sidelined by a veterinary restriction for months, a decision her trainer, Kenny McPeek, questioned.
Taken by the Wind, owned by a prestigious group including NFL legend Terry Bradshaw, is now third on the Kentucky Oaks leaderboard. Her journey from the vet's list to the winner's circle is a testament to resilience.
As the road to the Kentucky Derby and Oaks heats up, these races showcase the talent and determination of both horses and trainers. But will Golden Tempo and Taken by the Wind live up to their early promise? Only time will tell.
