Journalism, the champion horse who captivated fans with his remarkable performances last year, is back at Santa Anita, ready to resume training after a well-deserved winter break. This talented colt, known for his speed and endurance, has already made a name for himself in the racing world, winning prestigious events like the GI Santa Anita Derby and Preakness. But there's more to his story, and it's a tale that might surprise some racing enthusiasts.
The Champion's Journey
Journalism's success didn't happen overnight. Last year, he dominated the track, winning the GI Haskell at Monmouth Park and the GII San Felipe at Santa Anita, and finishing second in the Kentucky Derby, Belmont Stakes, and GI Pacific Classic. His impressive campaign earned him a well-deserved spot as a finalist for North America's outstanding 3-year-old-male of 2025, though the award ultimately went to Sovereignty, who also had a remarkable year.
A Light Training Regime
Before returning to Santa Anita, Journalism was in light training at Bridlewood Farm in Ocala, Florida. Trainer Michael McCarthy shared that the horse was 'full of himself' and 'happy to be back'. This period of light training allowed Journalism to recharge and prepare for the upcoming season, which will see him galloping again in a few days and getting back into his routine.
The Next Steps
As Journalism embarks on his 4-year-old season, the focus is on the GI Metropolitan Handicap at Saratoga, typically run in June. This race is considered a major goal for the first half of the season, and McCarthy is optimistic about Journalism's prospects. He plans to assess the horse's progress over the next couple of months, but the GI Metropolitan Handicap is certainly on the radar.
A Star in the Making
Journalism's impressive record stands at 11: 6-3-1 and $4,348,880 in earnings. He is owned by a group of prestigious entities, including Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, Bridlewood Farm, Don Alberto Stable, Robert V. LaPenta, Elayne Stables Five, and Coolmore-affiliated partners Susan Magnier, Michael Tabor, and Derrick Smith. With such a strong backing and a proven track record, Journalism is poised to continue his stellar performances and captivate fans once again.
But here's where it gets interesting. Journalism's success has sparked debates among racing enthusiasts. Some argue that his achievements are a testament to the horse's natural talent and hard work, while others question the role of breeding and training in his remarkable performances. This controversy invites discussion and encourages readers to share their thoughts in the comments. Is Journalism's success a result of his own abilities, or is there more to it? The racing world awaits your thoughts.
