Cherie DeVaux's 2023 has been nothing short of remarkable. With seven graded-stakes victories, including her first Breeders' Cup win with More than Looks in the Mile, she achieved a career milestone by surpassing $10 million in earnings. The year also saw significant updates on her stable's top performers and promising newcomers, setting the stage for an even more successful future.
The highlight of the year was undoubtedly the Breeders' Cup victory, which came after a challenging journey. More than Looks returned from injury to secure second-place finishes in two Grade 1 races before triumphing at the Breeders' Cup. DeVaux emphasized the importance of adaptability and resilience, noting that plans rarely unfold as initially envisioned but achieving the ultimate goal made it all worthwhile. Despite the accolades, DeVaux remains focused on maintaining a stable size of 120-130 horses, prioritizing quality over quantity.
Reflecting on a Memorable Year
The past year was filled with highs and lows, culminating in unprecedented success for Cherie DeVaux. Her stable's achievements were highlighted by the Breeders' Cup win and reaching a new financial milestone. These accomplishments underscored the effectiveness of her training methods and strategic planning. The victory with More than Looks in the Breeders' Cup Mile was particularly gratifying, especially considering the horse's injury setback last year. This win not only validated DeVaux's approach but also boosted confidence within her team.
The journey leading up to the Breeders' Cup win was anything but straightforward. After finishing sixth in the previous year's Mile, More than Looks faced several challenges, including a stall accident that sidelined him for months. His return in August brought mixed results, with second-place finishes in two Grade 1 races. However, persistence paid off when he secured the Breeders' Cup victory. DeVaux reflected on the importance of flexibility and adaptability in racing, acknowledging that while initial plans often change, staying focused on the end goal is crucial. The win also reinforced her commitment to maintaining a stable size that allows for personalized attention to each horse, ensuring their well-being and performance.
Looking Ahead: Updates on Key Horses and Rising Stars
DeVaux provided updates on several key runners and young prospects, setting the stage for an exciting future. Skinner, a 4-year-old Curlin colt, is coming off his first stakes win and is being prepared for upcoming races at Oaklawn and Fair Grounds. She Feels Pretty, a 3-year-old filly, won the Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup and is entered in the American Oaks, aiming to gauge her distance capabilities. Brilliant Berti, a 3-year-old Noble Mission colt, is being refreshed and is expected to continue improving next year. Vahva, a 4-year-old filly, had a stellar year with two graded wins but needs time to recuperate after recent underwhelming performances.
Other notable updates include Pyrenees, a 4-year-old son of Into Mischief, who showed promise throughout the year and is being refreshed for future races. Cagliostro, owned by Wathnan Racing, will compete in Dubai's carnival before potentially returning to DeVaux's stable. Among the 2-year-olds, Tanti Auguri, a Quality Road filly, won her debut and shows potential for longer distances. States' Rights, a Constitution colt, broke his maiden and is being groomed for stakes races. Without Caution, a son of Without Parole, won his debut and is developing steadily. Deep Manhattan, a Justify colt, impressed in his debut and is being prepared for a strong spring and summer campaign. Cromwell, a Quality Road colt, showed promise in his second start and is considered one of the most exciting dirt horses in the stable. DeVaux's focus remains on nurturing these young talents, ensuring they reach their full potential while maintaining the high standards of her stable.