The 152nd Kentucky Derby delivered a moment for the ages as Golden Tempo, a 23-1 long shot, stormed to victory on Saturday, May 2, 2026. In a thrilling stretch run, the colt held off morning line favorite Renegade by a neck, securing a $3.1 million winner's share from the $5 million purse. Jockey Jose L. Ortiz guided Golden Tempo to glory at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, kicking off the American Triple Crown season with a historic upset.

This victory wasn't just about the odds—it was a landmark moment for the sport. Trained by Cherie DeVaux, Golden Tempo made history as the first horse trained by a woman to win the Run for the Roses. The Phipps Stable and St. Elias Stable entry crossed the finish line in 2:02.27, etching their names into Derby lore.

For those who backed the winner, the payouts were substantial. A $2 win bet on Golden Tempo returned $48.00. The exacta with Renegade paid $156.80 on a $2 wager, while the trifecta—adding third-place finisher T O Elvis—netted $1,642.40. The superfecta, which included fourth-place Midnight Thunder, paid $8,914.60. These numbers reflect the excitement and unpredictability that make the Kentucky Derby "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports."

From the opening race to the final stretch, Churchill Downs was alive with drama. Golden Tempo's charge down the lane will be remembered as one of the great Derby moments, and for fans and bettors alike, the 2026 running was a day to savor.