Preakness Stakes 2025 Historic Victory

HORSE RACING
May 21, 2025

Preakness Stakes 2025

Journalism’s Late Surge Seals Historic Victory

 

Bet on Preakness Stakes action always brings surprises, and the 150th running delivered a truly unforgettable moment. With pre-race favorite Journalism charging from behind, overcoming mid-race traffic, and storming down the stretch, fans were treated to one of the most dramatic editions in recent history. 

Preakness Stakes odds had Journalism listed as the top choice, and his determined finish lived up to the billing. For fans exploring Preakness Stakes betting this season, Journalism’s performance was a shining example of how grit and pedigree combine to make a champion.

The son of Curlin, Journalism added to an already impressive sire’s legacy. His win marked Curlin’s second Preakness Stakes victory as a sire, following Exaggerator’s triumph in 2016. Curlin, a Preakness winner in 2007, continues to influence the Triple Crown scene, with many of his offspring finishing strongly in both the Kentucky Derby and Preakness.

Journalism’s dam, Mopotism, is a daughter of Bernardini, the 2006 Preakness Stakes champion, adding further depth to the pedigree.

 

A Preakness Stakes to Remember at Pimlico

 

Under jockey Umberto Rispoli, Journalism was boxed in at the final turn, following an intense bump from Goal Oriented. As Gosger led the pack and Sandman began his charge, Rispoli guided Journalism into the clear. In the final strides, Journalism surged past Gosger to win by a half-length, clocking in at 1:55.37 for the 1 3/16 miles.

The win marked trainer Michael McCarthy’s second career Preakness Stakes victory. His prior win came with Rombauer in 2021. Despite the close calls and near-misses, McCarthy expressed pride and gratitude in the post-race interview, emphasizing Journalism’s perseverance and racing intelligence.

The field saw Gosger (15-1) finish second, Sandman (6-1) in third, and Goal Oriented (8-1) rounding out the superfecta. A $1 exacta returned $16.90, the $1 trifecta paid $73.50, and the superfecta came in at $303.40. Among the returning Kentucky Derby contenders, only Journalism, Sandman, and American Promise made the start at Pimlico.

 

Historic Milestone and Future Implications

 

This year’s Preakness Stakes was especially notable as the final race held at the historic Pimlico Race Course before its planned demolition and renovation. Journalism’s victory, therefore, not only secured his place in Triple Crown history but also closed a significant chapter in the sport’s heritage.

The ripple effects of this race extend beyond just one victory. With Sovereignty, the Kentucky Derby winner, sitting out the Preakness, the door was wide open. For bettors who tracked the Preakness Stakes odds, Journalism’s win was a payoff for those who stayed with the favorite in an unpredictable field.

Bloodlines played a pivotal role. Curlin, Journalism’s sire, continues to build on a legacy that includes producing 25 Grade 1 winners. His influence and the broader Mr. Prospector sire line remain dominant in modern American racing. Notably, winners of the last five Preakness Stakes, Journalism, Seize The Grey, National Treasure, Early Voting, and Rombauer, can all trace their lineage to Mr. Prospector.

For fans, the 150th Preakness Stakes showcased drama, determination, and elite racing pedigree. And for those looking to get in on the action ahead of the Belmont Stakes and beyond, visit our racebook for the latest news, expert picks, and the official Belmont Stakes betting odds.

 

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