Golden Tempo’s exhilarating last-to-first victory at the 152nd Kentucky Derby has ignited speculation about whether trainer Cherie DeVaux will take the promising three-year-old to Maryland for the 151st Preakness Stakes. With the potential for a coveted Triple Crown title hanging in the balance, this decision could be a pivotal moment for both the colt and trainer. This move serves as a tactical hedge against the recent trend where three of the last five Derby winners have opted to skip the Preakness due to concerns over the short two-week turnaround. The looming question remains: will DeVaux and Golden Tempo make the trip to Laurel Park?
Will Golden Tempo Run in the 2026 Preakness Stakes?
Following her historic victory as the first female trainer to win the Kentucky Derby, DeVaux is under considerable pressure to consider a run at the Preakness. At a media briefing outside her Keeneland barn, DeVaux emphasized the importance of the horse’s well-being in the decision-making process. She remarked, “We’re going to look and see how much energy he has when he’s on track, see how he’s moving, see his attitude.” DeVaux’s prioritization of the horse’s health reveals a deeper tension between competitive ambition and ethical responsibility in horse racing.
Historical Context of Kentucky Derby Winners Missing the Preakness
Historically, the practice of Derby winners skipping the Preakness is not uncommon. Since 1875, 54 Derby champions have not participated in the subsequent Preakness Stakes. Recently, this phenomenon has accelerated; the 2025 Derby winner Sovereignty is just the latest of four champions in seven years to bow out of the Preakness. This trend indicates a growing wariness among trainers regarding the physical demands on their horses, suggesting a shift in the racing culture prioritizing athlete longevity over immediate accolades.
| Stakeholder | Before Event | After Event |
|---|---|---|
| Cherie DeVaux (Trainer) | Pressure to maintain a competitive edge | Focus on horse welfare; decision influenced by health assessment |
| Ownership Group | Expectations for Triple Crown pursuit | Informed by DeVaux’s insights into horse’s condition |
| Fans and Stakeholders | High anticipation for a Triple Crown attempt | Increased interest in horse welfare discussions and strategic racing choices |
The Broader Context and Ripple Effect
The decision regarding Golden Tempo’s participation in the Preakness has implications beyond the immediate race. The increasing trend of Derby winners bypassing the Preakness may resonate across the horse racing landscape in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. This shift could lead to a reevaluation of racing strategies, promoting a culture that places long-term athlete health above short-term victories. As the horse racing industry continues to evolve, the choices made by trainers like Cherie DeVaux may serve as a blueprint for future practices aimed at sustaining the sport and enhancing its ethical standards.
Projected Outcomes for the Coming Weeks
As the decision for Golden Tempo’s participation in the Preakness looms, we can anticipate several key developments:
- Public Health Debates: Heightened discussions surrounding equine health and racing practices will gain traction, prompting stakeholders to consider how decisions impact the sport’s integrity.
- Market Sentiment: A potential decision to skip the Preakness could lead to fluctuating betting markets as horse racing enthusiasts reassess their outlook on Triple Crown contention.
- Strategic Shifts: Other trainers may follow DeVaux’s example, either opting out of short turnarounds for their horses or changing their training regimens to enhance recovery times.
