3Journalism

Who is Kentucky Derby horse Journalism?

Journalism, a bay colt by Curlin out of Mopotism (by Uncle Mo), has emerged as a serious Kentucky Derby contender following an impressive victory in the San Felipe Stakes (G2) at Santa Anita. Trained by Michael McCarthy, this improving three-year-old has compiled a perfect record of three wins and one third from four starts while earning $338,880.

His pedigree is loaded with classic potential, combining two-time Horse of the Year Curlin's stamina with Uncle Mo's brilliance through his Grade 1-placed dam Mopotism. This breeding has manifested in Journalism's running style, as he's developed from a closing sprinter into a tactically versatile router who can either press the pace or stalk from just off it.

His recent form has been particularly noteworthy, with three consecutive victories culminating in a professional 1 3/4-length score in the San Felipe at 1 1/16 miles. His ability to settle early and produce a sustained drive through the stretch suggests the Kentucky Derby's 1 1/4-mile distance should be well within his scope.

Under McCarthy's patient handling, Journalism has shown steady improvement with each start while maintaining his conditioning through a consistent work pattern at Santa Anita, including back-to-back five-furlong moves in 1:01.40H. His progression from maiden winner to graded stakes performer, combined with his efficient stride and professional demeanor, suggests he's still developing and could be peaking at the perfect time for the Triple Crown trail.

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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