#15 Golden Tempo | 60 pts

Trainer: Cherie DeVaux
Jockey: Jose Ortiz
Last Race: Louisiana Derby – 3rd
Running Style: Deep Closer

Golden Tempo is a highly consistent colt who has shown the ability to compete at a high level in multiple graded stakes. He won the Lecomte Stakes, finished third in the Risen Star, and most recently ran a solid third in the Louisiana Derby. In that race, he closed effectively but lost some momentum after taking a sharp turn to the rail, highlighting both his talent and the challenges of being a deep closer.

As a late-running colt, Golden Tempo relies on a strong finishing kick to overcome slower starts. While his consistency makes him a contender in any Derby prep, his lack of early speed can sometimes put him at a tactical disadvantage, forcing him to navigate traffic and find room in crowded stretch runs. Despite these challenges, his grit, determination, and repeated high-level performances make him a colt to monitor closely on the Derby trail.

Why He’s Ranked #15

• Lecomte Stakes winner
• Consistent graded-stakes performer
• Deep closer with a strong finishing kick
• Demonstrates determination and adaptability despite traffic challenges

Pedigree Analysis

Sire: Curlin
Dam: Carrumba
Grandsire: Smart Strike
Granddam: Sherriff’s Deputy
Other notable ancestors: Bernardini, A.P. Indy, Deputy Minister, El Prado (IRE), Mr. Prospector, Seattle Slew

Golden Tempo’s pedigree blends stamina and finishing power. Curlin provides durability and class, while Smart Strike and Bernardini contribute both tactical speed and route ability. The deeper pedigree features A.P. Indy, Deputy Minister, and Mr. Prospector, reinforcing stamina, toughness, and the ability to carry late speed over longer distances.

With a pedigree built for distance and a proven pattern of consistent late runs, Golden Tempo is a colt capable of impacting races despite his deep-closing style, particularly when pace scenarios favor his late kick.