Matthew Flores became a horse racing fan as a kid, watching the big races on TV. When Matthew, who is autistic, reached out to former jockey and NBC analyst Donna Barton Brothers for help gaining entry into the business, it was a longshot attempt. But it worked.
Matthew got a position as a hot walker with rising star trainer Cherie DeVaux, and this year he’s enjoying the ride as Golden Tempo, trained by DeVaux, won the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes.
“He’s just been wonderful,” DeVaux says. “Such a positive light in our team, and he’s a very good worker … and he brings a lot of joy into what we do every day.”
America’s Best Racing is producing a 2026 video series highlighting autism acceptance and inclusion within the sport of horse racing. In this video we learn about Matthew’s role working with one of the most successful training operations in the country. Over the past year, he’s gained knowledge and experience by leaps and bounds, according to Matthew’s parents, Tito and Mary. As Mary says, he’s “living his best life.”
Whether you are a longtime horse racing fan or new to the sport, America’s Best Racing is your source for great written and video content and streaming video that’s helpful to both beginners and dedicated fans of the horse life. Get started today by visiting our website.
