#16 Chip Honcho | 49 pts
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Jockey: Luis Suez
Last Race: Louisiana Derby – 5th
Running Style: Frontrunner
Chip Honcho is a colt who prefers to control the pace, either setting or pressing early fractions, making him a contender who can dictate the terms of a race. He ran a strong second in the Risen Star Stakes, earning a 91 Beyer, although a mild speed bias may have aided his performance that day. Most recently, he finished fifth in the Louisiana Derby, falling out of form as he was headstrong early in the race.
His tactical style allows him to leverage his early speed, but races with multiple speed horses or slow early fractions may compromise his effectiveness. Chip Honcho’s best performances come when he can establish position early and maintain a controlled, aggressive pace throughout the race. His experience and ability to press or set the lead make him a colt capable of impacting races if conditions suit his style.
Why He’s Ranked #15
• Risen Star runner-up with a 91 Beyer
• Prefers to set or press early pace
• Experienced front-end colt with tactical speed
• Can dictate terms when pace scenarios are favorable
Pedigree Analysis
Sire: Connect
Dam: Miss My Rose
Grandsire: Curlin
Granddam: Bullville Belle
Other notable ancestors: Magician (IRE), Smart Strike, Holy Bull, Galileo (IRE), Mr. Prospector, Deputy Minister, Affirmed
Chip Honcho’s pedigree with Connect and Curlin provide durability and competitiveness over routes, while Magician (IRE) and Smart Strike contribute versatility and class. The deeper pedigree includes Galileo (IRE), Holy Bull, and Mr. Prospector, enhancing stamina, toughness, and tactical speed, all valuable traits for a front-running colt.
With a pedigree suited for distance and a natural inclination to control pace, Chip Honcho is a colt who can influence the outcome of races from the front, particularly when fractions play to his advantage. He will need to return to his best form and improve from there to contend with the best in his crop but pedigree isn’t a limitation.
