Hall of Fame trainer Steve Asmussen confirmed on Saturday morning at Churchill Downs that Chip Honcho will sidestep the Kentucky Derby and instead target the Preakness Stakes, opting for a reset after a disappointing effort in the Louisiana Derby.
The decision follows a mixed campaign for the colt, who had earlier stamped himself as a promising contender with victory in the Gun Runner Stakes and a narrow second in the Risen Star Stakes (G2) at Fair Grounds. However, his most recent outing—a fifth-place finish in the Louisiana Derby (G2)—prompted connections to reassess their approach ahead of the Triple Crown series.
Asmussen, a two-time winner of the Preakness, indicated that the change in plan was rooted in both form and practicality. After working five-eighths of a mile in 1:00.80, with a notably sharp final quarter in :23 2/5, Chip Honcho showed signs of retained ability in the mornings. Yet the trainer was candid about the colt’s inconsistency.
“I just don’t have a good excuse for that race,” Asmussen admitted. “We felt it was better not to risk another below-par performance in the Derby and instead focus on getting him back to his best in Baltimore.”
The Preakness Stakes, run over 1 3/16 miles, may suit Chip Honcho better at this stage. His runner-up effort in the Risen Star, where he set the pace before being caught late by Paladin, remains a strong indicator of his potential. Asmussen also referenced the colt’s impressive Ragozin figure from that race, underlining his belief that the raw talent is still intact.
Handling and temperament have emerged as key concerns. Adjustments such as the use of blinkers and race-day behavior are still being fine-tuned, with Asmussen suggesting that a smaller crowd at Laurel Park compared to the Derby’s vast audience could prove beneficial.
The 151st Preakness Stakes is scheduled for May 16 at Laurel Park, and Chip Honcho is expected to line up against a competitive field. Among those under consideration are Crude Velocity and Cherokee Nation from the Bob Baffert yard, along with Iron Honor and Ottinho (trained by Chad Brown), Napoleon Solo, Talk to Me Jimmy, Crupper, Taj Mahal, Talkin, and The Hell We Did.
Asmussen’s confidence in the race is also shaped by past success. His first Classic victory came in the Preakness with Curlin, who famously edged Derby winner Street Sense. Two years later, Rachel Alexandra delivered a historic performance to become the first filly in decades to win the race, further cementing the trainer’s affinity for the Middle Jewel of the Triple Crown.
Chip Honcho, a son of Connect—himself by Curlin—was purchased for $210,000 at the Fasig-Tipton Kentucky July sale. With a record of two wins and two seconds from six starts and earnings of $280,475, the colt retains credentials that justify another chance on a major stage.
For now, the focus is on rediscovering rhythm and consistency. The Preakness presents that opportunity.
For more stories, results, and updates from the world of horse racing, stay tuned to racebuzz