In a remarkable turn of events, 32-year-old trainer Ethan West has emerged on the national horse racing scene after his horse, Chunk of Gold, secured an impressive second-place finish in the Grade 2 Risen Star Stakes at Fair Grounds. This achievement has not only earned Chunk of Gold 25 qualifying points for the Kentucky Derby 2025 but also propelled West into the spotlight as a promising figure in the sport. Raised in Indiana and mentored by his grandparents, West built his career through relentless hard work and dedication, primarily focusing on developing young horses. His unconventional path has now led him to one of the most prestigious stages in horse racing.

From Humble Beginnings to the National Spotlight

In the heart of the Midwest, in the charming town of Cambridge City, Indiana, Ethan West’s passion for horse racing was ignited during his childhood. Guided by his grandparents, who owned a few horses, West and his brother Aaron developed a deep love for the sport. As they grew older, both brothers pursued careers in training, gaining invaluable experience at a center in Russell Springs, Kentucky. Over time, Ethan’s commitment to horsemanship earned him respect within the community, allowing him to establish a successful operation focused on nurturing young talent.

Since branching out on his own in 2018, West has managed over 1,100 horses and won 168 races across Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio. His breakthrough came in 2023 with a graded-stakes victory in the Bryan Station Stakes (G3) at Keeneland. However, it was Chunk of Gold’s performance that truly put West on the map. Purchased for a modest $2,500 at the Fasig-Tipton October sale, Chunk of Gold made his debut at Turfway Park, where he quickly demonstrated his potential with a strong late kick. Despite initial doubts about his ability to compete on dirt, Chunk of Gold proved his worth by finishing second in the Risen Star Stakes, earning nearly $150,000 in prize money and positioning himself for the Kentucky Derby.

The decision to enter the Risen Star was bold but well-calculated. With Jareth Loveberry aboard, Chunk of Gold settled mid-pack before making a powerful move in the final stretch. Though unable to catch the winner, Magnitude, Chunk of Gold’s performance solidified West’s reputation as a skilled trainer capable of competing on the highest levels. Loveberry praised the horse’s development, noting that while still learning, Chunk of Gold knows how to finish strong.

An Unwavering Commitment to Family and Horses

Beyond his success on the track, West’s dedication to family sets him apart from many trainers. After the race, his first call was not to owners or colleagues but to his wife, Paige, and their four children. Balancing a demanding career with family life is no small feat, yet West manages it gracefully, keeping his horses based year-round at Turfway Park to stay close to home. With the Kentucky Derby just ten weeks away, West remains grounded, focusing on what’s best for Chunk of Gold. Whether they choose the Jeff Ruby Steaks at Turfway or the Louisiana Derby at Fair Grounds, West’s approach remains consistent—letting the horse guide the next steps.

For West, this journey is more than just about winning races. It’s about building a legacy rooted in hard work, integrity, and family values. As he looks toward the future, the possibilities seem endless, but one thing remains clear: West’s commitment to excellence will continue to shine both on and off the track.