Chase The Chaos ‘A Picture Of Health’ | 2023 Preakness Stakes News

Even though Chase the Chaos was far behind the winner in his last two starts, trainer Ed Moger Jr. said the gelding is showing him he is ready for the May 20 Preakness Stakes (G1) at Pimlico Race Course.

“He’s a picture of health. He looks great,” Moger said. “I know he didn’t run very good the last couple of times, but I still really like the horse. I really think he could have a shot. He’s a talented horse. Real strong.”

After finishing in the top three in the first five starts of his career, including a pair of wins, Chase the Chaos earned a fees-paid berth into the Preakness with a victory in the El Camino Real Derby on Feb. 11 at Golden Gate Fields.

Off that success, Moger sent him from his base at Golden Gate to Santa Anita Park for the San Felipe (G2) on dirt on March 4. He finished seventh in the nine-horse field, beaten 16 ¾ lengths, and was found to have an exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage.

Moger opted for a little freshening for the Pennsylvania-bred and brought him back in the California Derby on the synthetic track at Golden Gate. Sent off as the 2-1 favorite, he hopped at the start and ended up eighth of nine.

“He couldn’t look any better, so we’re kind of throwing those out and we’re going to work him this weekend,” Moger said. I’m sure he will work really, really good.”

Chase the Chaos is scheduled to ship from California to Baltimore on Tuesday.