In the lead-up to the prestigious 2025 Kentucky Derby, several promising young horses have been making headlines with their impressive training sessions. Among them, Journalism, a Curlin colt trained by Michael Maker, has caught attention after completing a four-furlong workout at Santa Anita. Owned by a consortium of notable stables, Journalism is coming off a Grade 2 victory and is set for his next challenge in the San Felipe Stakes. Meanwhile, Cornucopian, an Into Mischief colt under Bob Baffert's guidance, fired a bullet during his workout, clocking the fastest time among all horses at the same distance. These workouts provide valuable insights into the form and potential of these horses as they prepare for the upcoming racing season.

Horse Racing Stars Shine in Crucial Workouts

In the crisp, early morning air at Santa Anita Park, a group of highly anticipated thoroughbreds underwent critical training sessions, offering glimpses of their readiness for the 2025 Kentucky Derby. One of the standout performers was Journalism, a Curlin colt owned by Bridlewood Farm, Don Alberto Stable, Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, Elayne Stables 5, and Robert LaPenta. Under the watchful eye of trainer Michael Maker, Journalism completed a four-furlong workout in 49.8 seconds, placing eighth-fastest among 13 horses at the same distance. This performance comes on the heels of his impressive victory in the Grade 2 Los Alamitos Futurity, where he demonstrated his prowess over 1 1/16 miles on the main track. With this win still fresh in memory, Journalism is now being prepared for the San Felipe Stakes on March 1, a crucial stepping stone toward the Kentucky Derby.

Another horse that made waves during the Thursday morning session was Cornucopian. Trained by the renowned Bob Baffert, this Into Mischief colt blazed through the four furlongs in an astonishing 47.0 seconds, the fastest time recorded among all horses at that distance. Cornucopian, who has yet to make his official debut, was purchased as a yearling for $1.1 million by SF Bloodstock, Starlight Racing, and Madaket Stables. His explosive speed suggests that he could be a formidable contender once he enters the racing circuit.

Elsewhere, Filoso, a City of Light colt trained by Chad Summers, worked four furlongs in 49.6 seconds at Palm Meadows. Although it was the slowest time among four horses at the distance, this was Filoso’s first workout since his last race, where he placed sixth in the Kentucky Jockey Club Stakes. The focus now shifts to refining his form for future races.

Cyclone State, a McKinzie colt also trained by Chad Summers, posted a solid time of 48.4 seconds for four furlongs at Palm Meadows. Coming off a victory in the Jerome Stakes at Aqueduct, Cyclone State’s performance indicates that he is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

Finally, Naughty Rascal, trained by Gerald Bennett, tackled six furlongs in 1:13.6 at Tampa Bay Downs. As the only horse to work at that distance, Naughty Rascal’s workout suggests he is in peak condition following his win in the Pasco Stakes at Tampa Bay Downs.

These workouts serve as important benchmarks for trainers and owners as they gauge the fitness and potential of their horses. The performances at Santa Anita, Palm Meadows, and Tampa Bay Downs highlight the competitive nature of the sport and the high stakes involved in preparing for the Kentucky Derby.

From a journalist's perspective, these early indicators are thrilling. They offer a glimpse into the future stars of the racing world and the intense preparation that goes into each race. For readers, these workouts remind us of the dedication and skill required to compete at the highest level of horse racing. Each second shaved off the clock, each stride taken, brings these horses one step closer to glory. As we look forward to the upcoming racing season, the anticipation builds for what promises to be an unforgettable series of events leading up to the Kentucky Derby.