In a remarkable turn of events, 32-year-old trainer Ethan West has found himself thrust into the national spotlight following an impressive second-place finish by his horse, Chunk of Gold, in the prestigious $500,000 Fasig-Tipton Risen Star Stakes at Fair Grounds. This performance not only secured valuable points toward the Kentucky Derby but also marked a significant milestone for West, who has quietly built his reputation at Turfway Park and other Midwest racetracks. Despite the competitive nature of the event, West's strategic decision to enter the race paid off, showcasing both his talent and the potential of Chunk of Gold. The horse, purchased for just $2,500 as a yearling, has now earned nearly $150,000 and positioned itself as a contender for the Kentucky Derby. West remains grounded, prioritizing family and carefully considering the next steps for his rising star.

The journey to this moment has been far from conventional for West. Raised in Cambridge City, Indiana, he was introduced to horse racing through his grandparents, sparking a lifelong passion that led him and his brother Aaron to pursue careers in the sport. After gaining valuable experience working with young horses at a training center in Russell Springs, Kentucky, West launched his own operation in 2018. His focus on developing young talent has paid dividends, with over 1,100 starts and 168 wins under his belt. One of his most notable achievements came in 2023 when Runaway Storm claimed victory in the Bryan Station Stakes at Keeneland.

Chunk of Gold's rise has been nothing short of remarkable. Breaking his maiden on debut at Turfway Park, the colt demonstrated a powerful late kick that caught the attention of many. In his subsequent start, he finished a close second in the Turfway Prevue Stakes, further solidifying his potential. With limited earnings, West and owner Terry Stephens took a calculated risk by entering the oversubscribed John Battaglia Memorial. When that opportunity didn't materialize, they decided to ship south for the Risen Star Stakes. The decision proved fruitful as Chunk of Gold settled mid-pack before unleashing a strong finish, securing second place behind Magnitude. Jockey Luis Saez, replacing Jareth Loveberry, guided the horse expertly, ensuring a competitive run.

West's success extends beyond the track. Based year-round at Turfway Park, he enjoys the rare luxury of being close to his family, including his wife Paige and their four children. Following the Risen Star, his first call wasn't to an owner or fellow trainer—it was to Paige, reflecting his commitment to balancing professional ambitions with personal values. As the Kentucky Derby approaches, West is weighing his options, considering either the Jeff Ruby Steaks at Turfway or the Louisiana Derby at Fair Grounds. Regardless of the path chosen, West's dedication and family-first approach continue to define his career. With 10 weeks to go, the future looks bright for both West and Chunk of Gold.