‘Just In Case’: Chunk Of Gold To Be Nominated To Travers But PA Derby ‘Top Of The Radar’ originally appeared on Paulick Report.
Terry L. Stephens’ Chunk of Gold, the last-out winner of the West Virginia Derby (G3) on August 3 at Mountaineer, is to be nominated to the $1.25-million DraftKings Travers (G1) on August 23 at Saratoga Race Course but will most likely pursue another race.
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“That’s a little quick back. We have him nominated in there just in case we decide to do it,” said trainer Ethan West. “It is better to be nominated and not go, than want to go and to not be nominated.”
The $1-million Pennsylvania Derby (G1) on September 20 at Parx Racing could be a preferred option for the Preservationist gray.
“I would say that. There are a few Derbys left, there’s the Pennsylvania Derby, which is kind of top of the radar right now, and then there’s some smaller ones. There’s the Super Derby [September 6 at Louisiana Downs], the St. Louis Derby… there’s plenty of options, but as of right now, we are leaning more towards the Pennsylvania Derby,” said West.
On the grounds at Saratoga on Saturday was trainer Billy Morey of dual Grade 3-placed Brotha Keny, the third-place finisher of the West Virginia Derby. The Mo Town dark bay gelding is doubtful to run back in the Travers at this stage.
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“Very slim chance,” said Morey. “Something would have to change for him to be under consideration. He’s running well and we are happy with him, but for him to go to that level, there would have to be some major changes at the top of the race.”
This story was originally reported by Paulick Report on Aug 9, 2025, where it first appeared.