Kentucky Derby Contender Profile: JOURNALISM

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Kentucky Derby Contender Profile

“Journalism”: Curlin Colt Makes Headlines Ahead of Kentucky Derby 2025

One of the top contenders in this year’s Run for the Roses, Journalism enters the 151st Kentucky Derby with momentum, pedigree, and speed figures that have caught the attention of the horse racing betting world. As the Derby Day approaches,  Kentucky Derby odds are tightening. This son of Curlin has positioned himself as a leading name in Kentucky Derby betting conversations nationwide.

A Versatile Performer with a Strong Pedigree

Trained by Michael W. McCarthy and ridden by Umberto Rispoli, Journalism owns a 5: 4-0-1 career record with earnings of $638,880. Known for his consistency, the colt favors a mid-pack stalking style and has regularly posted strong figures, most notably a career-best 110 Equibase Speed Figure.

Journalism is by Curlin, a two-time Horse of the Year whose progeny includes Preakness Stakes, Belmont Stakes, and Breeders’ Cup Classic winners. During his standout career, Curlin hit the board in all three Triple Crown races.

On the dam side, Mopotism brings additional class and stamina. A daughter of Uncle Mo, she won Grade 2 La Canada and was placed in multiple Grade 1 events. Mopotism’s dam line includes numerous stakes winners, and her first foal, Journalism, looks poised to extend that legacy.

A Strong Lead-Up to Derby Day

Journalism’s development has been nothing short of impressive. After a third-place finish on debut last October at Santa Anita in a six-furlong sprint, he’s reeled off four consecutive wins at increasing distances and competition levels.

In December, he broke his maiden in November at Del Mar, followed by a dominant 3 1/2-length win in the Los Alamitos Futurity (G2). In March, he notched a 1 3/4-length win in the San Felipe (G2) before closing with a hard-fought victory in the Santa Anita Derby (G1) on April 5, overcoming traffic to remain undefeated in 2025.

His four wins came with triple-digit speed figures: 105, 106, 110, and 108, demonstrating consistency and upside. His ability to win from off the pace or near the lead makes him a tactical threat in the largest and deepest field of his career.

Kentucky Derby Outlook and Betting Impact

With 122.5 qualifying points, Journalism sits third on the Kentucky Derby leaderboard, trailing only Burnham Square and Sandman. Currently listed as the +300 favorite in Kentucky Derby Future Lines, he checks every major box for bettors: top-tier pedigree, recent form, improving numbers, and versatility in running style.

The biggest question surrounding Journalism is how he will handle the 20-horse Derby field, as his recent victories came in small fields of five. However, his proven ability to settle mid-pack and finish strongly gives reason for confidence.

Bred in Kentucky by Don Alberto Corp., Journalism was a high-priced $825,000 Fasig-Tipton Saratoga yearling, purchased by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners. Since then, he’s secured his spot among the top Kentucky Derby contenders and now appears poised for a breakout performance.

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