Journalism Pacific Classic Run Under Discussion After Stellar East Coast Tour
Journalism’s breakout season began with a hard-fought runner-up finish in the Kentucky Derby behind Sovereignty. Undeterred, McCarthy sent him to the Preakness Stakes where he powered home despite traffic, stamping his class with a win that turned heads nationwide. He followed it with another strong second in the Belmont Stakes, solidifying his status among the elite Triple Crown horses of 2025.
The decision to bypass Saratoga and ship to Monmouth Park for the Haskell proved wise. Journalism faced a competitive field, yet surged clear late, validating the strategic choice and raising talk of future tests against older competition.
“When you’ve got a horse like this, every decision counts,” McCarthy said. “The Haskell was a smooth ship, and he handled it beautifully. But Del Mar is home turf, and that makes a difference when you’re considering what’s next.”
The Journalism Pacific Classic buzz is not just about the race itself but what it represents. A Del Mar start would be Journalism’s gateway to elite older-horse company and a direct test of his maturity. Fans are eager to see how he handles the local challenge, especially against seasoned veterans with deeper distance resumes. A big run in the Pacific Classic could set the tone for a Breeders’ Cup showdown—and perhaps even a Horse of the Year push. The momentum is real, and McCarthy knows the importance of timing the colt’s rise with pinpoint precision.
The trainer’s path to this point has been anything but smooth. In January, his Altadena home was nearly consumed by the Eaton wildfire. “It puts a lot into perspective,” McCarthy noted. “But Journalism came along at the right time. He gave us something to focus on, something to look forward to.”
Now, with the Pacific Classic 2025 just weeks away, the team faces a pivotal decision. While McCarthy hasn’t ruled out facing older horses, he emphasized the abundance of lucrative races restricted to 3-year-olds still on the calendar. “At some point, he’ll take that leap,” he said. “But we want to do it on the right terms.”
McCarthy credits much of his calm in big-race moments to his time with Todd Pletcher. “You learn from the best—Derbys, Breeders’ Cups, you see it all. It’s not new anymore. We’ve got the horse. Now it’s about placing him right.”
The team also acknowledges logistical concerns. “Air freight options are limited,” McCarthy explained. “Getting horses across the country isn’t what it used to be. That’s another reason why Del Mar and the Breeders’ Cup in California could make a lot of sense.”
For now, Journalism is enjoying the familiar surroundings of his home base, soaking up the Pacific breeze. Whether he takes on the big boys in the Pacific Classic or remains among his peers, his next move will be appointment viewing.
Meanwhile, another potential star is rising. Catch up on Scarlet Sands’ latest win in the Miss Gracie Stakes as she eyes a stakes treble this summer at Gulfstream.
Journalism Pacific Classic Tracker
- Trainer: Michael McCarthy
- Age: 3
- Pedigree: By Nyquist
- Record: 3 wins, 4 major placings in 7 starts
- Notable Wins: Preakness Stakes, Haskell Stakes
- Next Possible Start: Pacific Classic 2025 at Del Mar
