The term 'Go for the Gold' is often used to encourage someone to strive for excellence and success. The crossword solutions for this term are PAN (3 letters), MINE (4 letters), SMELT (5 letters), RUSH (4 letters), COMPETE (7 letters), PROSPECT (8 letters), and VIE (3 letters). PAN refers to a shallow container used to separate gold from dirt or gravel. MINE is a place where gold is extracted from the earth. SMELT is the process of melting ore to separate out the gold. RUSH is a sudden, intense effort to achieve something. COMPETE means to strive to do better than others. PROSPECT is the act of searching for gold. Finally, VIE is to COMPETE with someone else for something.