Journalism

​Journalism, a bay colt born on February 6, 2022, has swiftly risen to prominence on the Road to the Kentucky Derby, currently amassing 47.5 qualifying points. Trained by Michael W. McCarthy, Journalism has demonstrated exceptional talent and resilience in his racing career.

Pedigree and Early Development

Sired by Curlin out of the mare Mopotism (by Uncle Mo), Journalism boasts a pedigree rich in racing excellence. His dam, Mopotism, was a graded stakes winner, capturing the 2018 Grade II La Canada Stakes and placing in multiple Grade I events. This lineage suggests a potent combination of speed and stamina, qualities that Journalism has displayed on the track.​

Racing Career

Journalism debuted on October 27, 2024, at Santa Anita Park, finishing third in a six-furlong maiden special weight race. He broke his maiden impressively on November 17, 2024, at Del Mar, winning a one-mile maiden special weight by a significant margin.

His breakthrough came on December 14, 2024, in the Grade II Los Alamitos Futurity, where he defeated a trio of Bob Baffert trainees, showcasing his potential against top competition. ​

San Felipe Stakes Triumph

On March 1, 2025, Journalism faced a formidable field in the Grade II San Felipe Stakes at Santa Anita Park. Despite the presence of odds-on favorite Barnes, Journalism, under jockey Umberto Rispoli, executed a well-timed move to overtake the leader in the stretch, securing a 1 3/4-length victory.

Looking Ahead

With his recent successes, Journalism has solidified his position as a leading Kentucky Derby contender. Trainer Michael McCarthy is considering the Grade I Santa Anita Derby as the colt's next target, aiming to further prepare him for the challenges of the Triple Crown trail.

Journalism's blend of pedigree, performance, and strategic prowess makes him a compelling figure as we approach the 2025 Kentucky Derby. His journey exemplifies the dynamic and unpredictable nature of horse racing, where emerging talents continually reshape the landscape of the sport.

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#5 Journalism ($7.60) reports to the finish line first in the @losalracing Futurity (GII) to earn 10 @KentuckyDerby points. #KyDerby151

Jockey: @umbyrispoli
Trainer: @mwmracing #TwinSpiresReplay pic.twitter.com/dmmNwVzFjQ

— TwinSpires Racing 🏇 (@TwinSpires) December 15, 2024