10Chunk of Gold

Who is Kentucky Derby horse Chunk of Gold?

Chunk of Gold, a gray/roan colt by Preservationist out of Play for Gold (by Cairo Prince), has emerged as an intriguing Kentucky Derby prospect following a strong second-place finish in the Louisiana Derby (G2) at 1 3/16 miles. Trained by Ethan West, this late-developing three-year-old has shown remarkable progression through his four career starts, compiling a record of 1 win and 3 seconds while earning $348,818.

His pedigree suggests stamina potential, as his sire Preservationist was a Grade 1 winner who excelled at classic distances, while his dam's sire Cairo Prince adds a blend of speed and stamina influences. This breeding has manifested in Chunk of Gold's running style, as he's developed from a closing sprinter into a tactical router with an impressive finishing kick.

His recent form has been particularly noteworthy, with consecutive second-place finishes in the Risen Star (1 1/8 miles) and Louisiana Derby (1 3/16 miles) at Fair Grounds. In both races, he demonstrated the ability to settle early and produce a strong late run, suggesting the Kentucky Derby's 1 1/4-mile distance should be within his scope.

His consistent progression through longer distances, coupled with sharp recent workouts at Turfway Park (including a bullet 5 furlongs in :59.60), indicates he's maintaining his form while continuing to develop. With his closing running style, proven stamina, and improving form, Chunk of Gold profiles as an interesting longshot candidate for the Kentucky Derby.