HorseRacing
Journalism Stalks to Victory in the Los Alamitos Futurity (Ky. Derby Prep)
2024-12-15
Journalism, a rising star in the world of horse racing, made headlines with an astonishing victory in the Grade 2, $200,000 Los Alamitos Futurity. This two-year-old Curlin colt, who was supplemented for $7,500 into his first stakes, showcased his exceptional talent and determination on the track.
Unrivaled Performance in the Los Alamitos Futurity
Breaking the Maiden and Setting the Pace
A third-time starter, Journalism broke his maiden on November 17 at Del Mar in a two-turn mile. On Saturday, he broke alertly from the outermost post and was ridden by @umbyrispoli for trainer @mwmracing. Despite starting from a stalking third on the backstretch, he took the lead at the three-sixteenths pole and never looked back.The race was a thrilling display of speed and strategy. Getaway Car, one of the three starters trained by Bob Baffert, led through early fractions of 23.93, 47.75, and 1:11.87. However, as the field turned wide into the homestretch, Journalism made up ground and surged to the lead. He got the mile in 1:36.58 before winning with a final time of 1:43.04.The Trainer's Perspective
Winning trainer Michael McCarthy had high hopes for Journalism. "We gave him every opportunity not to run today, but he kept answering everything we threw out at him," McCarthy said. "He had two wonderful works, and he was very cool and composed in the paddock. He's picking things up fast."The colt's performance was a testament to his training and the hard work put in by his team. McCarthy's expertise and guidance played a crucial role in Journalism's success.The Jockey's Experience
Jockey Umberto Rispoli had a great ride on Journalism. "He broke very well and was nice and relaxed outside the leader (Getaway Car)," Rispoli said. "I started to wind him up on the turn. He's so smart and changed leads perfectly and then gave me a real nice finish."Rispoli's skill and confidence on the track were evident in his handling of Journalism. His ability to read the race and make the right moves at the right time contributed to the colt's victory.Journalism's victory was not only a personal achievement but also a significant moment for the horse racing community. He paid $7.60 to win, led a $1 exacta worth $15.80, and a $1 trifecta that returned $25.70. With 10 points toward qualifying for Kentucky Derby 2025, he has set his sights on even greater success.Owned by Bridlewood Farm, Don Alberto Stable, Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, Elayne Stables 5, and Robert LaPenta, Journalism has already shown great promise. His record now stands at 3: 2-0-0, and with the $120,000 for winning Saturday, his purse earnings have increased to $158,880.Baffert, who had won eight of the first 10 runnings of the Futurity since it was moved to Los Alamitos in 2014 and six times at its original home Hollywood Park, will no doubt be looking to add to his impressive record.In conclusion, Journalism's victory in the Grade 2 Los Alamitos Futurity was a remarkable achievement. His talent, determination, and the support of his team have made him a force to be reckoned with in the world of horse racing.