The horse that won the 2026 Kentucky Derby spent most of the race in last place.
Seriously.
For much of the race, Golden Tempo wasn't even close to the front of the pack. But when it mattered most, the horse surged down the stretch and crossed the finish line first.
Watching that race reminded me that there are some great leadership lessons hiding in unexpected places.
1. Feeling behind doesn't mean you're losing.
How many times have you looked around and thought everyone else was further ahead than you?
Maybe in your career. Your business. Your relationships. Even your personal goals.
The truth is, not everyone is meant to lead from the start. Some people are built to finish strong.
Don't confuse your current position with your final outcome.
2. Barriers are meant to be broken.
This year's Derby wasn't just memorable because of the horse — it was historic because Cherie DeVaux became the first female trainer ever to win the Kentucky Derby.
She didn't spend her time focusing on barriers. She focused on becoming great.
That's what leaders do.
They don't wait for permission — they create possibility.
3. Nobody wins alone.
After the race, DeVaux immediately credited her jockey.
"He had to time it perfectly. He believed in the horse."
I loved that.
Leadership isn't about taking the spotlight. It's about trusting others, giving credit, and recognizing that success is almost always a team effort.
One final thought...
Whether you're building a business, leading a team, strengthening a relationship, or chasing a dream, don't let today's scoreboard convince you the race is over.
Sometimes the strongest finish comes from the person — or the horse — that looked the furthest behind.
Stay patient.
Trust your pace.
And when your moment comes...
Finish strong.
— Kevin
