Golden Tempo wins the 158th running of the Belmont Stakes after winning the Kentucky Derby
Golden Tempo Wins 158th Belmont Stakes: Triple Crown Triumph
Golden Tempo wins the 158th running – On Saturday, Golden Tempo claimed victory in the 158th Belmont Stakes, completing a historic Triple Crown win under the guidance of trainer Cherie DeVaux. This achievement marked a significant milestone, as Golden Tempo became the first horse to secure the Triple Crown in five weeks after its Kentucky Derby triumph. The win at Saratoga Race Course, a temporary venue for the event due to Long Island’s ongoing track renovations, not only elevated Golden Tempo’s status but also underscored DeVaux’s groundbreaking role as the first woman to win multiple Triple Crown races.
A Historic Triple Crown Journey
Golden Tempo’s victory in the 158th Belmont Stakes was a testament to its resilience and strategic pacing. Jockey Jose Ortiz played a crucial role in navigating the race, which stretched 1 1/4 miles and concluded in a time of 2:03.49. The competition was fierce, with a field of nine contenders, yet Golden Tempo managed to overcome challenges and secure the win. This success followed its Kentucky Derby triumph, highlighting a seamless transition from one prestigious race to the next.
“Golden Tempo is amazing. Jose is amazing,” said DeVaux, reflecting on the horse’s journey. “I think he needed to do this to show he was meant to win the Derby and that he belongs in the conversation of top 3-year-olds.”
DeVaux, a Saratoga native, has long been associated with the town, where she began her training career. Her path to this moment was paved with perseverance, and the 158th Belmont Stakes victory solidified her legacy. The race also marked a continuation of her success, as she had previously led a Derby winner to the Belmont in 2023 with Arcangelo. This time, Golden Tempo’s win added a new chapter to her story, cementing her place in horse racing history.
Strategic Brilliance and Resilience
While the pace of the 158th Belmont Stakes was more measured than the Kentucky Derby, Golden Tempo demonstrated adaptability and composure. Ortiz, who had ridden Renegade in the Derby, noted the horse’s sharpness was key to its performance. “He wasn’t going to get that setup as he did in the Derby,” Ortiz remarked. “But today, he showed up and won.”
The race’s outcome reflected Golden Tempo’s ability to thrive under different conditions. Commandment and Renegade, both strong contenders, were outpaced in the final stretch. With odds of 6-1, the horse’s victory was celebrated as a triumph of strategy and timing, reinforcing its status as a top 3-year-old in the sport. The Saratoga venue, though temporary, provided a unique backdrop for this historic moment.
“He was bouncing a bit today, which made me very happy because I wanted him to be a little sharper,” Ortiz added. “You can see him—he’s very relaxed. He does what I ask him to do. That’s the main thing.”
Legacy and Personal Connection
For DeVaux, the 158th Belmont Stakes win was more than a professional victory—it was a deeply personal achievement. “All the credit goes to Golden Tempo, who won the race,” she said. “But I’m just so fortunate to be in this position. It’s history-making, and I’ve kind of shied away from it, but I’m really gracious that I am that person.”
The race also served as a tribute to the community and the spirit of the sport. Co-owner Vinnie Viola dedicated Golden Tempo’s win to Dominic DiPrisco, a late friend who passed away on Wednesday at age 70. “I know you’re in heaven,” Viola said. “I love you, and this race is for you. It means more than I can express in words right now.”
Golden Tempo’s journey through the Triple Crown series has been a blend of skill, strategy, and luck. Its 158th Belmont Stakes victory was the culmination of a year of preparation and determination, proving that consistency and adaptability can triumph in the most challenging of races. The horse’s performance has sparked conversations about its potential for future races and its place in the sport’s legacy.
