Cherie DeVaux, a native of Saratoga, New York, is returning to her roots as she prepares for the Belmont Stakes at Saratoga Race Course. Just five weeks ago, DeVaux made history by becoming the first woman to train a Kentucky Derby winner with her horse, Golden Tempo.
DeVaux’s journey in horse racing began in Saratoga, where she worked as a hot walker before setting her sights on becoming an exercise rider. Her passion for the sport led her to work with renowned trainer Chuck Simon and later as an assistant to Chad Brown, gaining valuable experience with top-level horses.
In 2018, DeVaux established her own stable in Lexington, Kentucky, and has since achieved significant success, including her recent Derby victory. Despite her Kentucky base, DeVaux’s ties to Saratoga have garnered her strong local support.
“Having a local connection always just amps up everything around here and the interest level,” said Todd Shimkus, President of the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce. “Cherie is the rock star coming back to Saratoga, where she’s got family and friends and a community that has totally embraced the historic success she’s had, especially this year.”
DeVaux expressed excitement about sharing the Belmont experience with her family, including her nieces and nephews, who rarely attend races. “It’s an amazing opportunity to get to spend with my family in the build-up and the week of,” she said.
As the Belmont Stakes takes place at Saratoga for the third and final time before returning to Belmont Park, DeVaux has the chance to celebrate in the winner’s circle at the place where her career began. “It’s a beautiful track,” DeVaux remarked. “It’s all about horse racing. The whole town, that is their highlight and focus. It’s really exciting to be a part of that.”
DeVaux could become the second female trainer to win the Belmont in recent years, following Jena Antonucci’s victory in 2023. Her achievements continue to inspire, as she focuses on her role as a trainer rather than the historic significance of her gender.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
