Kentucky Derby Contender Profile: Chunk of Gold

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Kentucky Derby Contender Profile

Chunk of Gold: Underrated Closer Could Shake Up the 2025 Kentucky Derby

As Horse Racing Betting picks up steam ahead of the 151st Kentucky Derby, one deep-closing contender could offer serious value. 

Chunk of Gold enters the Run for the Roses under the radar but could be a sneaky play for bettors looking to capitalize on longer Kentucky Derby odds. While not one of the top betting favorites, his consistent stretch-running performances make him an interesting option for Kentucky Derby betting strategies.

Trained by Ethan West and set to be ridden by jockey Jareth Loveberry, Chunk of Gold brings a record of one win and three second-place finishes from just four career starts. The son of Preservationist and Play for Gold has proven he belongs among elite company and is trending in the right direction as Derby day approaches.

Pedigree Built for Distance

Chunk of Gold has a strong pedigree geared toward success at longer distances. His sire, Preservationist, was known for excelling at route races on dirt, highlighted by victories in the 2019 Woodward Stakes (G1) and Suburban Stakes (G2). 

On the dam side, Play for Gold is a daughter of Cairo Prince, whose sire Pioneer of the Nile finished second in the 2009 Kentucky Derby and later produced Triple Crown champion American Pharoah. With stamina and dirt ability throughout his bloodlines, Chunk of Gold could thrive in the grueling 1 1/4-mile Kentucky Derby.

Rising Star Connections

Jareth Loveberry, who rode Two Phil’s to a runner-up finish in the 2023 Derby, will pilot Chunk of Gold for his second career Derby mount. Trainer Ethan West, primarily based at Turfway Park, will be making his Kentucky Derby debut. While relatively unknown compared to veteran Derby trainers, West’s colt arrives at Churchill Downs with a strong foundation of experience and competitive results.

Steady Progress on the Road to the Derby

Chunk of Gold broke his maiden at first asking last fall at Turfway Park, showing off a powerful closing kick to win by a neck at six furlongs. Since then, he has consistently improved against tougher competition. 

He finished second in the Turfway Prevue Stakes to kick off his 2025 campaign, then stepped up to graded stakes company by running second behind Magnitude in the Risen Star Stakes (G2) at Fair Grounds. Importantly, he finished ahead of notable Derby rivals Built, American Promise, and East Avenue in that race.

In his most recent prep, Chunk of Gold turned in another strong effort with a second-place finish in the Louisiana Derby (G2), this time chasing home Tiztastic, another key Derby contender. 

Chunk of Gold Kentucky Derby Outlook

Listed at +3000 in Derby Futures, Chunk of Gold figures to be a longshot when the gates open at Churchill Downs. However, his consistent stretch drives and proven dirt form make him a viable candidate to spice up trifecta and superfecta tickets for bettors. 

His recent bullet workout at Turfway Park,a sharp five furlongs in :59.60 on April 12, suggests he is sitting on a strong effort. For those looking to find value and differentiate their tickets in Horse Racing Betting, Chunk of Gold is a name worth considering.

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