The Human Behind the Horse: Why Cherie DeVaux’s Preakness Decision Matters
Let’s start with a bold statement: Cherie DeVaux’s decision to skip the Preakness Stakes with Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo isn’t just about horse racing. It’s about humanity—or rather, the lack thereof in how we often treat animals in sports. DeVaux’s choice has sparked a debate that goes far beyond the track, and personally, I think it’s one of the most important conversations we’ve had in sports this year.
The Decision: More Than Just a Race
DeVaux’s announcement that Golden Tempo wouldn’t run in the Preakness was met with a mix of applause and outrage. To some, it was a betrayal of tradition. To others, it was a brave stand for animal welfare. What makes this particularly fascinating is how DeVaux framed the decision: ‘The horse is not a machine.’
This isn’t just a catchy phrase—it’s a fundamental truth that’s often overlooked in high-stakes sports. Horses aren’t cars you can tune up and race again in two weeks. They’re living beings with limits, and DeVaux’s decision to prioritize Golden Tempo’s long-term health over a shot at the Triple Crown is a rare moment of clarity in a world that often prioritizes spectacle over sustainability.
The Criticism: Unfair or Unavoidable?
DeVaux has called the backlash ‘unfair,’ and I’m inclined to agree. Fans and critics alike have accused her of undermining the Triple Crown’s prestige, but what many people don’t realize is that the Triple Crown itself is a human construct. It’s not a natural progression for a horse; it’s a grueling test of endurance that we’ve imposed on them.
If you take a step back and think about it, the real question isn’t why DeVaux skipped the Preakness—it’s why we expect horses to run three grueling races in five weeks in the first place. This raises a deeper question: Are we celebrating athletic achievement, or are we exploiting animals for our entertainment?
The Bigger Picture: Tradition vs. Progress
DeVaux’s decision isn’t just about Golden Tempo; it’s about the future of horse racing. She’s challenging the sport’s traditions, and that’s never easy. One thing that immediately stands out is her focus on the ‘bigger picture.’ She’s not just thinking about this year’s races; she’s thinking about Golden Tempo’s entire career.
This is where DeVaux’s perspective as a trainer—and as a woman in a male-dominated field—becomes especially interesting. She’s not just breaking barriers; she’s redefining what it means to be a leader in this sport. Her decision to rest Golden Tempo isn’t just about one horse; it’s about setting a precedent for how we treat all horses in racing.
The Hidden Implications: A Shift in Culture?
What this really suggests is that the culture of horse racing is at a crossroads. DeVaux’s decision could be the start of a much-needed shift toward prioritizing animal welfare over tradition. But it’s also a reflection of broader societal changes. As we become more aware of animal rights and ethical treatment, sports like horse racing are going to face increasing scrutiny.
From my perspective, DeVaux’s stance is both courageous and pragmatic. She’s not just protecting her horse; she’s protecting the sport itself. If horse racing wants to survive in the 21st century, it needs to evolve. And that starts with decisions like this.
The Future: What’s Next for Golden Tempo and DeVaux?
DeVaux has made it clear that the Belmont Stakes is the next goal, and that’s a smart move. By focusing on one race at a time, she’s giving Golden Tempo the best chance to succeed—and to thrive beyond this year.
But what’s even more exciting is the potential impact of her decision on the sport as a whole. If more trainers follow her lead, we could see a future where horse racing is more sustainable, more ethical, and more respectful of the animals at its heart.
Final Thoughts: A New Kind of Victory
Cherie DeVaux didn’t win the Preakness, but she’s already achieved something far more significant. She’s reminded us that sports aren’t just about winning—they’re about integrity, compassion, and doing what’s right.
Personally, I think this is the kind of victory that will resonate long after the races are over. It’s a victory for Golden Tempo, for DeVaux, and for anyone who believes that animals deserve better than to be treated like machines.
So, the next time you watch a horse race, remember DeVaux’s words: ‘The horse is not a machine.’ It’s a simple truth, but one that could change the sport forever.
