Kentucky-bred Journalism recorded his third Grade 1 victory, winning the $1 million Haskell S. (G1) at Monmouth Park with a heart-stopping late surge. Ridden by Umberto Rispoli, Journalism collard Gosger and Goal Oriented close to home to score by a half-length. He covered 1 1/8 miles in1:48.15.
Trained by Michael McCarthy, Journalism is owned by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, Bridlewood Farm, Don Alberto Stable, Robert La Penta, Elayne Stables Five, and the Coolmore partners of Mrs. John Magnier, Michael Tabor, and Derrick Smith. With the thrilling win, Journalism earned a berth in Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1) at Del Mar Nov. 1. The Haskell is part of the “Win and You’re In” Challenge Series.
Journalism’s Haskell proved reminiscent of the Preakness S. (G1) when he reeled in Gosger in deep stretch to win the second leg of this year’s Triple Crown. He scored his first Grade 1 win in this year’s Santa Anita Derby (G1).
“He can be tactical. You can ride him from behind, you can ride from everywhere,” said Rispoli of the well-traveled Journalism. “But today, I think he was most special, probably more than the Preakness.
“Coming out of the gate he was upset with the kickback,” Rispoli added. “Something was bothering him. He’d never been worried about the kickback before. So, on the backside I decided to take him closer to Gosger, and I knew the horse was going to take me wherever I wanted. I tried to keep him engaged going to the quarter pole. Once I pulled the stick out, he responded as a great horse. I got up in time.”
Journalism Proves His Class in Haskell
A son of Curlin—Mopotism, by Uncle Mo, Journalism was bred in Kentucky by Don Alberto Corporation and has now improved his record to 6-2-1 in nine starts while increasing his bankroll to $2,438,800.
McCarthy said that there are no definitive plans for the now three-time Grade 1 winner.
“He’s very a very special horse,” said McCarthy shortly after the race.