Journalism has been making headlines for all the right reasons – and not just in the papers.
Trained by Michael McCarthy, this sleek, powerful colt has surged to the top of the Kentucky Derby betting, with punters and paddock-watchers alike tipping him as the one to beat at Churchill Downs.
But being the favourite comes with pressure. Derby day is a test like no other: 20 horses, a roaring crowd, and two minutes that can define a career.
McCarthy knows the score; he’s been here before. The question now is whether Journalism can turn strong form and sharp gallops into a Classic win.
Will this be the year the headlines match the hype?
From Wildfires to the Winner’s Circle
Just four months ago, Michael McCarthy and his team were forced to evacuate their Southern California home due to the devastating Eaton Fire.
The wildfire came within 600 feet of McCarthy’s house, leaving behind smoke damage and a community in recovery.
While McCarthy’s family was fortunate, many of his neighbours lost everything.
The experience left an indelible mark on the trainer, who now sees Journalism’s Derby run as a chance to bring hope and distraction to those still rebuilding their lives.
“People are still healing. People are still without a place to live. So maybe for a couple hours on Saturday, we can provide them a little bit of entertainment,” McCarthy said, reflecting on what a Derby win would mean for his community.
So can Journalism do it? Let’s find out…
Kentucky Derby 2025 Runners & Odds
| Number | Horse | Odds |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | Journalism | 5/2 |
| 18 | Sovereignty | 6/1 |
| 7 | Luxor Cafe | 8/1 |
| 17 | Sandman | 8/1 |
| 9 | Burnham Square | 12/1 |
| 21 | Baeza | 12/1 |
| 4 | Rodriguez | 14/1 |
| 1 | Citizen Bull | 16/1 |
| 12 | East Avenue | 16/1 |
| 3 | Final Gambit | 20/1 |
| 10 | Grande | 20/1 |
| 14 | Tiztastic | 20/1 |
| 13 | Publisher | 25/1 |
| 16 | Coal Battle | 25/1 |
| 5 | American Promise | 33/1 |
| 6 | Admire Daytona | 33/1 |
| 19 | Chunk Of Gold | 33/1 |
| 2 | Neoequos | 50/1 |
| 11 | Flying Mohawk | 50/1 |
| 15 | Render Judgment | 66/1 |
| 20 | Owen Almighty | 66/1 |
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Journalism: Built for the Big Stage
Standing nearly 16 hands tall, Journalism is an imposing presence in the barn. McCarthy describes him as having a powerful neck and thick cannon bones, traits that speak to his strength and athleticism.
But it’s not just his physical gifts that set him apart; it’s his mental toughness. In the Santa Anita Derby, California’s premier prep race, Journalism was cut off twice by rivals but never lost his composure.
Instead, he rallied, found his stride, and surged to victory, a performance that showcased both his speed and his will to win.
“He just doesn’t get discouraged,” McCarthy noted, a sentiment echoed by those who have watched the colt mature through the spring.
A Blue-Blooded Pedigree
Journalism’s talent is no accident. He’s the son of Curlin, a Hall of Fame racehorse who won the Preakness and Breeders’ Cup Classic, and was twice named Horse of the Year.
On the dam’s side, Journalism is out of Mopotism, a tough and talented mare who earned nearly $900,000 on the track.
With Uncle Mo as his damsire, Journalism’s bloodlines are packed with both stamina and class.
The Team: Michael McCarthy and Umberto Rispoli
For McCarthy, Journalism represents his best Derby chance yet. Last year’s starter, Endlessly, finished ninth – a respectable effort, but one McCarthy knew was a long shot.
This year, he arrives at Churchill Downs with the favourite, a position every trainer dreams of.
“This is definitely the position you want to be in,” McCarthy said. “You think horse racing, you think Kentucky Derby.
“We’re pleased to go over there with the favourite and as I look at him today it’s certainly justified”.
A key part of Journalism’s success has been jockey Umberto Rispoli. The Italian-born rider, now a fixture in California racing, has guided Journalism through his biggest wins.
Rispoli is known for his tactical smarts and cool head, qualities that will be essential in the chaos of a 20-horse Derby field.
He’s ridden major winners across Europe and Asia, and his partnership with Journalism has been seamless.
Perfect So Far
Journalism enters the Derby unbeaten in three starts. He broke his maiden in a Grade 2 at Los Alamitos in December, then followed up with a decisive win in the Grade 2 San Felipe Stakes at Santa Anita.
His most recent triumph, the Santa Anita Derby, was his toughest test yet, but he passed with flying colours, overcoming traffic and adversity to win going away.
From a speed-figure perspective, Journalism has posted two of the fastest numbers among this year’s 3-year-old crop, further justifying his status as the favourite.
The Competition: No Easy Task
Despite his credentials, Journalism faces a deep and talented field in the Kentucky Derby.
Among his chief rivals:
Luxor Cafe: The Japanese invader has dominated the Japan Road to the Derby and brings an international flair to the race. His adaptability to American dirt is the big question mark.
Sovereignty: Known for his powerful late kick, Sovereignty has closed from far back to win major preps and could be flying late if the pace is hot.
Tappan Street: A Florida Derby winner with tactical speed and stamina, Tappan Street is trained by the accomplished Brad Cox and could be a major factor if he gets a clean trip.
Is He The One To Beat?
No horse is without question marks. Journalism has yet to face a field as large or as competitive as the Kentucky Derby’s 20-horse lineup.
Navigating traffic and avoiding trouble will be crucial, especially given his experience in smaller fields.
While his Santa Anita Derby win proved he can overcome adversity, repeated incidents in the Derby could compromise his chances.
That said, Journalism’s story is one of resilience, both for the horse and his connections.
He’s unbeaten, bred for the Derby distance, and has already shown the ability to overcome setbacks.
With a trainer and jockey who know how to win on big stages, and a community cheering him on from afar, Journalism is more than just a favourite – he’s a symbol of hope and determination.
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