Updated: May 3, 2026
Cherie DeVaux just etched her name into horse racing history. On May 2, 2026, she became the first female trainer to win the Kentucky Derby with Golden Tempo’s thrilling upset victory at Churchill Downs. This milestone caps years of dedication, smart career moves, and a deep love for the sport.
While exact net worth figures for trainers remain private, industry experts estimate Cherie DeVaux’s net worth in 2026 falls in the $5–10 million range. This comes from her share of purse earnings, training fees, bonuses, sponsorships, and stable operations. Her rapid rise makes her one of the most successful female trainers in the game today.
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Early Life and Path to Horse Racing Stardom
Born on December 2, 1981, in Saratoga Springs, New York, Cherie DeVaux (age 44) grew up surrounded by horses. Her family has deep roots in Standardbred (harness) racing—her brother Jimmy has won over 5,000 races as a driver and trainer.
She initially studied pre-med in college but felt a stronger pull toward horses. She started as a hot walker and groom, then worked as an assistant for respected trainers Chuck Simon and later Chad Brown. Those formative years taught her the business inside out—from daily horse care to high-stakes management.
In 2018, DeVaux took the bold step of launching her own stable. It wasn’t instant success—she waited 11 months for her first win—but persistence paid off. Her stable now houses around 120 horses, with operations across Kentucky tracks like Churchill Downs, Keeneland, and Turfway Park.
Career Earnings and Major Achievements
DeVaux’s business acumen shines through her numbers. Her stable has generated impressive purse earnings, and as trainer, she typically earns about 10% of those winnings plus daily training fees.
Here’s a quick overview of her key stats (as of early May 2026):
| Metric | Career Total | 2026 (YTD) | Notable Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starts | ~1,801 | 128–134 | Consistent growth |
| Wins | 297+ | 21–23 | Multiple G1 wins |
| Earnings (Purses) | $32.9M – $36.4M | $2.1M – $5.5M+ | Record $10.2M in 2024 |
| Kentucky Derby | 1 Win (2026) | Golden Tempo | Historic first for women |
Key Milestones:
- First graded stakes win in 2021.
- Multiple Grade 1 victories, including Breeders’ Cup Mile (2024).
- Career-best $10.2 million in earnings for her stable in 2024.
- 2026 Kentucky Derby win with longshot Golden Tempo (23-1 odds), adding a significant bonus.
These earnings don’t include additional revenue from owner partnerships, bloodstock connections, or potential future syndication deals.
Personal Life, Family, and Support System
DeVaux balances her demanding career with a strong family foundation. She is married to prominent bloodstock agent David Ingordo, known for purchasing legends like Zenyatta. The couple shares a passion for the industry and a blended family that includes David’s daughter, Reagan.
Her family’s racing background provided early knowledge, while her husband’s expertise in horse selection offers a powerful professional edge. DeVaux often credits mentors like the late Chuck Simon for shaping her hands-on, horse-first philosophy.
She maintains a relatively private personal life but emphasizes treating every horse as an individual—a core value that keeps her stable sustainable and ethical.
Factors Driving Cherie DeVaux’s Net Worth Growth
Several smart strategies fuel her financial success:
- High Win Rate and Big Purses: Consistent performance in graded stakes and major events like the Breeders’ Cup drives the biggest paydays.
- Stable Management: Limiting her barn size to ~120 horses ensures quality care and strong results without overextension.
- Networking and Partnerships: Alliances with top owners (e.g., Phipps Stable, St. Elias) and her husband’s bloodstock skills bring premium horses.
- Historic Visibility: The Derby win boosts her profile, opening doors to new clients, sponsorships, and media opportunities.
- Diversified Income: Training fees, percentages of winnings, potential book deals or speaking engagements, and industry bonuses add layers.
Pro Tips for Aspiring Trainers (From an Expert Lens):
- Start with hands-on experience under proven mentors.
- Focus on horse welfare first—it leads to better long-term results.
- Build strong owner relationships through transparency and success.
- Stay adaptable; racing rewards patience and continuous learning.
Conclusion
Cherie DeVaux’s journey from pre-med student and groom to Kentucky Derby-winning trainer is a masterclass in passion meeting perseverance. Her estimated $5–10 million net worth in 2026 reflects not just prize money but a thriving, respected operation built on expertise and integrity. As she continues breaking barriers for women in racing, her story inspires countless newcomers to chase big dreams in the sport of kings.
The best is likely yet to come for this trailblazing trainer. Whether you’re a racing fan, aspiring equestrian professional, or simply love underdog success stories, Cherie DeVaux is a name worth following.