#17 Chip Honcho
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Jockey: TBA
Last Race: Wood Memorial (G2) – 5th
Running Style: Presser
Chip Honcho, a son of Connect, has put together a solid Derby trail resume with a listed stakes win and consistent efforts against improving competition. He most recently finished 5th in the Wood Memorial (G2), showing tactical presence but lacking the late punch to seriously contend.
Trainer Steve Asmussen has kept him on the Derby path despite not yet breaking through at the graded level, a sign of confidence in his continued development. With six career starts, he brings more experience than many in this field.
He profiles as a tactical presser who can sit just off the pace and grind, a style that could play well if the Derby pace collapses. Still, he appears a step below the top tier and will need both improvement and the right setup to make an impact.
Why He’s Ranked #17
Listed stakes winner with a solid foundation
Six career starts provide valuable experience
Tactical presser style fits potential Derby pace scenarios
Pedigree Analysis
Sire: Connect
Dam: Miss My Rose
Grandsire: Curlin
Granddam: Bullville Belle
Other notable ancestors: Smart Strike, Deputy Minister, Holy Bull, Galileo (IRE), Mozart (IRE), Affirmed, Mr. Prospector
Chip Honcho’s pedigree is built for stamina and distance, led by Connect (by Curlin), a strong influence for route runners and classic ability. The dam side adds even more staying power through Magician (IRE), a son of Galileo, one of the world’s top stamina sires.
With additional depth from Smart Strike, Deputy Minister, and Affirmed, the bloodlines suggest the Derby distance is well within reach. The pedigree is stronger than what he’s shown on the track so far, meaning he’ll need to step forward to match it against top competition.
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