In a stunning upset at the 2026 Kentucky Derby, long shot Golden Tempo thundered down the stretch to claim the Run for the Roses, etching his name into horse racing history. But who is this champion's pedigree, and what bloodlines run through his veins?

Golden Tempo is the son of Curlin, a Hall of Fame thoroughbred who dominated the track in 2007 and 2008. Curlin captured the Preakness Stakes and Breeders' Cup Classic, and was named American Horse of the Year twice. With 11 wins from 16 career starts and earnings over $10 million, Curlin remains one of the most celebrated sires in modern racing. His dam, Carrumba, was no slouch either—she won four of 15 starts, including the Grade 3 Top Flight Invitational Handicap at Aqueduct in 2016.

Foaled on February 7, 2023, Golden Tempo was bred by his owners, Phipps Stable and St. Elias Stables, and has never been sold at public auction. His bloodline also traces back to Bernardini, his grandsire on Carrumba's side, who won the 2006 Preakness Stakes and was named U.S. champion 3-year-old. And if that weren't impressive enough, Golden Tempo counts two of the greatest racehorses of all time—Secretariat (1973 Triple Crown winner) and Seattle Slew (1977 Triple Crown winner)—among his ancestors.

The 2026 Derby was historic for more than just the winner's pedigree. Cherie DeVaux became the first female trainer ever to win the Kentucky Derby, surpassing Shelley Riley's runner-up finish in 1992. For owner Vincent Viola of St. Elias Stables, it was a second Derby triumph, following his stake in 2017 champion Always Dreaming. Co-owner Daisy Phipps Pulito and jockey Jose Ortiz celebrated their first-ever victories in the Run for the Roses.

From the bloodlines of legends to a landmark win for women in racing, Golden Tempo's victory is one for the history books—and a reminder that greatness often runs in the family.