Preakness Stakes Contender Profile: Journalism
Preakness Stakes Contender Profile
Why Journalism Is the Horse to Beat at Pimlico
The spotlight is back on Journalism as he prepares to headline the 150th Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course. Coming off a runner-up finish in the Kentucky Derby, the son of Curlin returns just two weeks later in pursuit of redemption.
As bettors begin to lock in their wagers, few names stand out more than Journalism. Bet on Preakness contenders with momentum, and this colt checks every box. His combination of elite speed figures, top-tier connections, and Triple Crown-caliber pedigree has quickly made him a focal point in Preakness Stakes betting.
Drawn into post two, Journalism was installed as the 8-5 morning-line favorite, setting the tone as the early leader in Preakness Stakes odds. With rain in the forecast, many bettors are looking for a colt that can handle a wet surface, and Journalism’s tactical style and experience give him a significant advantage in a potentially sloppy edition of the second jewel of the Triple Crown.
Proven Success at the Graded Stakes Level
Trained by Michael W. McCarthy and ridden by Umberto Rispoli, Journalism enters the Preakness with a career record of 5: 4-0-1 and $638,880 in earnings. He first broke through in November at Del Mar and has steadily progressed through tougher competition. He ended his 2-year-old season with a win in the Los Alamitos Futurity (G2), added another in March’s San Felipe (G2), and then dug in for a hard-earned score in the Santa Anita Derby (G1) on April 5.
In the Kentucky Derby, Journalism ran a strong second, finishing just 1½ lengths behind Sovereignty. Despite the loss, he proved he can handle 1¼ miles and a 20-horse field. Now, with a smaller field and a slightly shorter distance (1 3/16 miles), he looks primed to take a step forward. His ability to press the pace or settle off the leaders has made him a dangerous and versatile competitor at every turn.
Elite Pedigree Built for Big Races
Journalism was bred in Kentucky by Don Alberto Corporation and enters the Preakness Stakes with one of the most impressive bloodlines in the field.
He’s by Curlin, a two-time Horse of the Year and 2007 Preakness winner who hit the board in all three Triple Crown races. Curlin has produced top-level progeny including winners of the Belmont Stakes, Breeders’ Cup Classic, and other Grade 1 events.
His dam, Mopotism, adds even more depth to his pedigree. A multiple Grade 1-placed runner and winner of the Grade 2 La Canada Stakes, she is a daughter of Uncle Mo and passed on her durability and class to Journalism, her first foal.
Ownership is equally high-profile, with Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, Bridlewood Farm, Don Alberto Stable, Robert LaPenta, Elayne Stables, and Coolmore’s elite partnership of Magnier, Tabor, and Smith all backing this promising colt.
Preakness Outlook and Betting Value
Following his Kentucky Derby performance and current trajectory, Journalism will aim to notch his first win in a Triple Crown race when he returns to action on May 17.
The shorter field at Pimlico may play to his strengths, especially if he breaks cleanly and gets his preferred position near the lead. McCarthy, who confirmed Journalism would ship to Baltimore on May 13, believes his colt has the right tools to handle any setup, including a wet track.
As bettors search for reliability and form in Preakness Stakes betting, Journalism offers a compelling favorite with proven success, a sharp tactical edge, and one of the most respected pedigrees in the race.
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