The final few weeks of 2025 are a busy time on the Road to the Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve. Seven qualifiers are taking place in two countries between Nov. 29 and Dec. 20.
Welcome to Kentucky Derby Prospect Profiles, where we take a look each week at a recent winner on the Road to the Derby schedule from which racehorses earn points toward qualifying for the 1 ¼-mile classic race May 2, 2026, at Churchill Downs.
Racing Hall of Fame trainer Jack Van Berg passed away on Dec. 27, 2017, at age 81. The Kentucky Derby-winning trainer who ranks fourth all-time in career wins in North America was profiled by America’s Best Racing correspondent Tom Pedulla in 2014. Van Berg reflected on the influence of his father, Marion, on his superstar horse from the 1980s, Alysheba, and on his enduring passion for the sport.
Further Ado followed up a striking maiden victory at Keeneland last month by producing a 1 3/4-length score in the $400,000 Grade 2 Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes Nov. 29 at Churchill Downs.
