The roar of the Kentucky Derby crowd still echoes, but the mania around a potential Triple Crown has hit a sudden, controversial wall. Golden Tempo, the longshot who stunned the world at Churchill Downs, won't be running in the Preakness Stakes this weekend — and trainer Cherie DeVaux has a blunt message for anyone who's unhappy about it.
In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, DeVaux didn't mince words when addressing the backlash. "It's been a mix of both, mostly positive. Which I appreciate, and I understand that fans of the sport or fans of the Triple Crown are disappointed, but the horse is not a machine," she said. "I have to advocate as the trainer to the owners or the clients, and we had a conversation, it wasn't my decision. It was a decision we made as a group."
A Tough Call, Not a Snap Decision
DeVaux, who made history as the first woman to train a Kentucky Derby winner, emphasized that the choice to bypass the Preakness was a collective one, driven by the horse's well-being. "His health, happiness and long-term future will always remain our top priority," she stated in a release. Golden Tempo becomes the third Derby winner in five years to skip the second leg of the Triple Crown.
The decision has ignited a fierce debate among racing fans. While many understand the need for rest after a grueling race, others have voiced frustration, questioning why a horse would enter the Derby if not committed to a full Triple Crown run. DeVaux fired back: "I think that's unfair. We are not committing to this and they're horses, like they're animals, and they're not just a car where you can go out and run them in two weeks. That's not how it works, and unfortunately if you're not going to understand, then I can't help you."
Support from an Unlikely Corner
Not everyone is piling on. Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy, never one to shy from controversy, has surprisingly thrown his weight behind DeVaux's call. In a recent blog, Portnoy argued that protecting the horse's future is more important than chasing history, a stance that has added a fresh layer to the conversation. The move has also sparked a broader debate about the Triple Crown's demanding schedule and whether it pressures trainers into risky decisions.
What's Next for Golden Tempo?
For now, Golden Tempo will rest and recover at Churchill Downs. DeVaux has not yet announced a next race, but the focus is squarely on the long game. "We are incredibly appreciative of the excitement and support surrounding the possibility of a Triple Crown run," she said. "Golden gave us the race of a lifetime in the Kentucky Derby, and we believe the best decision for him moving forward is to give him a little more time following such a tremendous effort."
The Preakness Stakes will run this Saturday at Laurel Park without the Derby champion — but with a trainer who's unafraid to stand her ground. As DeVaux made clear, the horse's well-being isn't up for debate.
