(WKYT) – Golden Tempo may be back at Keeneland now, but his roots are in Bourbon County.
Claiborne Farms raised Golden Tempo in his early days. Farm manager Brad Purcell said he was shocked by the big win.
“He was a big strong colt from the day he was born,” Purcell said. “I wish I could tell you that we could tell you we knew he was going to win the Kentucky Derby yesterday.”
It was a photo finish for the history books. Golden Tempo’s win made Cherie Devaux the first female winner at the Kentucky Derby.
Low profile despite athletic ability
Purcell said Golden Tempo kept a low profile despite his athletic ability.
“You hardly knew he was around,” Purcell said. “He wasn’t a troublemaker. He was easy to handle. A bit lazy at times — but that’s fine. He performed when he needed to perform.”
Paris hotel to honor Derby winner
On May 16, the staff at the Thoroughbred Hotel says they will be placing his name on the wall of Bourbon County Derby winners.
Chris Poynter said it’s not just that Golden Tempo won, but how he did it.
“This might be one of the most amazing wins in Derby history,” Poynter said. “Completely at the back of the pack. Completely took over. You could just see his engine kicking and kicking.”
Golden Tempo came from behind to take it all. Purcell said their work doesn’t stop there. They will keep doing the quiet work — because the next Derby winner may already be in the pasture.