Journalism lays down 5F in :59.80, nears return
Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners’ three-time Grade 1 winner Journalism signaled that he is nearing a return for his highly anticipated 4-year-old campaign after posting a swift :59.80 breeze on March 28 at Santa Anita.
Working in company to the inside of a stablemate, the classic-winning son of Curlin delivered his most serious work of 2026, as the pair showed intent from the outset of the move Saturday. Journalism was allowed to carve out the early advantage along the rail, and when his workmate ranged up to him at the top of the stretch, he began to show his class—easily repelling the challenge to hit the wire comfortably in front under mild urging.
On the gallop-out, Journalism continued to separate from his workmate with ease. The move marked his sixth recorded breeze since returning from a winter break at Bridlewood Farm in Ocala, and his fourth consecutive work at the five-furlong distance for trainer Michael McCarthy.
“Journalism was very good this morning,” said McCarthy following the move. “He cut out swift fractions early and finished up nicely.”
Journalism remains on target to make his seasonal debut in the coming weeks. The team is currently considering a trio of options: the 1 1/8-mile Oaklawn Handicap (G2) at Oaklawn Park on April 18, the 1 3/16-mile Ben Ali Stakes (G3) at Keeneland on the same day, or the 1 1/16-mile Alysheba Stakes (G2) on May 1—Kentucky Oaks Day at Churchill Downs.