Cherie DeVaux, a native of Saratoga Springs, is making history this Saturday at the Kentucky Derby. At 44, she’s aiming to become the first female trainer ever to win the prestigious race, which has been run for 152 years.
Though a significant milestone, DeVaux keeps her focus on her passion for horses. She joined the Derby conversation after entering Golden Tempo, a horse that finished third in two key prep races, but downplays the historic aspect, simply calling it “a special honor” and expressing her love for her job and the sport.
DeVaux’s journey into horse training wasn’t conventional; she was a pre-med student before finding her passion. She honed her skills as an assistant to notable figures like Chuck Simon and Chad Brown before starting her own stable. While the spotlight is on the Derby, she’s also enjoying the week, prioritizing her horses’ well-being and simply soaking it all in.