Cherie DeVaux Makes Derby History as NBC/Peacock Logs Record Audience
Cherie DeVaux Makes Derby History as NBC/Peacock Logs Record Audience
Cherie DeVaux becomes the first female Derby trainer to win, fueling a record NBC/Peacock audience and marking a milestone for women in horse racing.
The Kentucky Derby delivered a historic moment not just on the track, but in the annals of horse racing. Cherie DeVaux became the first female trainer to win the Derby, a milestone that resonated across the sport and beyond. Her victory adds to a year already packed with firsts for jockeys, trainers and horses, underscoring a turning point for women in the sport.
DeVaux’s win shines a spotlight on a remarkably demanding discipline that blends science, strategy, and years of perseverance. Her team’s approach—careful prep, a precise training regimen, and a readiness to seize opportunities on race day—served as a proof point that talent and grit can redefine the game.
The triumph came as NBC and Peacock reported a record live audience for the Derby broadcast, a signal of the event’s enduring appeal and the growing fan base for horse racing. Viewers watched not only for the iconic Run for the Roses, but also for the history being written by DeVaux and a growing cadre of women breaking barriers in the sport.
In addition to DeVaux’s historic win, José Ortiz achieved a notable double by securing victories in both the Oaks and the Derby in the same year, a rare feat that highlighted the depth of talent competing this Derby edition. Derby 152 provided a platform for these new laurels and for a sport eager to showcase evolution and excellence.
The ripple effect of this milestone is expected to be felt beyond the race day itself. Trainers, jockeys, and owners are likely to draw inspiration from the momentum, while fans and sponsors may see renewed interest and investment in a sport that continues to expand its reach and relevance. As the dust settles on this year’s Run for the Roses, the industry faces a future ripe with opportunities for greater diversity and inclusion, with DeVaux’s victory standing as a beacon for what the sport can become.
