Journalism Triumphs at the Preakness Stakes

In a captivating finish at the Preakness Stakes, Journalism navigated around challenges and fiercely charged down the final stretch to secure victory over the weekend.

Initially jostled by competition from Goal Oriented near a critical juncture, Journalism appeared set to replicate its second-place Kentucky Derby finish. However, the gritty horse powered past Gosger, clinching the win and delivering trainer Michael McCarthy his second victory in a Triple Crown event.

"Seeing the bumping, I prepared myself for a close miss," McCarthy admitted. "But Journalism's tenacity proved me wrong. I'm immensely proud of this horse and his spirit."

Finishing behind by just half a length was Gosger, followed by Sandman in third and Goal Oriented, trained by Bob Baffert, coming in fourth. Journalism completed the race in a time of 1:55.37 for the 1 3/16 miles distance.

Umberto Rispoli, a pioneering jockey from Italy, celebrated his first win in any of the prestigious Triple Crown races.

Reflections on a Triumphant Career

"Crossing the finish line, memories of my two-decade career flooded back," Rispoli recounted. "The opportunity to partner with a champion like this was worth the wait."

The track's dry conditions, following a week of heavy rain at Pimlico Race Course, proved advantageous for Journalism, contrasting with the wet conditions at the Derby.

Co-owner Aaron Wellman highlighted the victory's significance, illustrating the determination required from both Rispoli in maneuvering through tight gaps and Journalism in seizing a hard-fought win.

A Prize-Winning Performance

Journalism rewarded bettors with a $4 return for the win, $2.80 for placing, and $2.40 for showing.

Even Bob Baffert, renowned trainer, acknowledged Journalism's prowess. "He's an extraordinary horse," Baffert noted, reflecting on Goal Oriented's race style and inexperience being tested that day.

Absent Competitors and Historical Context

The horse Sovereignty abstained from competing due to the tight racing schedule, aiming instead for the Belmont Stakes set for June 7. This decision marked the fifth instance in seven years where the Preakness was devoid of a Triple Crown contender.

Despite this, Journalism laid claim to the title of top 3-year-old horse by winning the $2 million race—a finale to its participation at the historic Pimlico venue.

Wellman inquired humorously amid ongoing post-race activities, "Are they starting the demolition already?" while reflecting on the event.

A Memorable Milestone

Recalling the indelible race, Rispoli expressed admiration for Journalism, emphasizing the pride and honor of riding such a tenacious competitor.

The Preakness is scheduled to move to Laurel Park between Baltimore and Washington, D.C., for the next year ahead of its planned return to a redesigned Pimlico in 2027. McCarthy nostalgically reminisced about the legacy of "Old Hilltop," mentioning his memory of the 1989 match between Sunday Silence and Easy Goer.

Circular Journeys and New Beginnings

"Things have come full circle," McCarthy remarked. Despite his sentimentality for the permanent location, he looked forward to competitive returns in future years.

After a stretch since 2019, with War of Will's victory, Journalism is the latest to capture both the Derby's runner-up and Preakness titles since Exaggerator's 2016 triumph.

Amongst a select few Derby participants, only Sandman and American Promise joined Journalism at the Preakness, yet only Journalism performed admirably.

A Victory That's Deeply Cherished

Hall of Fame trainer D. Wayne Lukas commended, "The finest horse prevailed," alluding to Journalism's exceptional finishing prowess.

Dubbed "the new guy," McCarthy's second Preakness attempt proved as successful as his unexpected victory with Rombauer in 2021.

The win bore added emotional significance, as McCarthy and his family manage life uprooted by California's wildfires.

"We'll be back," McCarthy assured, reflecting a hopeful resilience that paralleled Journalism's powerful performance at the Preakness.