Repeat Course in Journalism
It is apparent that in the aftermath of an unforgettable Preakness, the controversy surrounding the rides of Umberto Rispoli and Flavien Prat rages on. Although we give our perspective on the incident, the main focus of the race should still be on the remarkable performance of Journalism and why it didn’t come as a surprise to those close to him. ~ Steve Haskin
Repeat Course in Journalism
By Steve Haskin
And the talk goes on. What a race. What a horse. How did Journalism get through a hole that wasn’t there? How did he escape injury after taking a series of body slams from both sides that turned the horse outside him sideways and sent the horse inside him bouncing off the rail? How did he then recover and catch a horse five lengths in front of him and still running strongly? What was his jockey Umberto Rispoli thinking putting himself, his horse, and two other horses and jockeys in a perilous situation? Did Flavien Prat go too far trying to close whatever small opening there was?
One week later and people are still talking about it and have focused most of their attention on the two jockeys and their respective roles in what could have been a disaster. That certainly makes for a compelling and heated discussion, but these days controversy often buries the lead of a story. And like all controversies, this one will fade with time and we can unite in the real story of Preakness 150.
But before we get to that, let’s take a deeper factual look into what Journalism accomplished. One key to watching the race again is, don’t watch Gosger when Journalism turns on the afterburners and quickly erases his big lead. You never know if the closer is really closing or if the leader is backing up. Instead, watch Sandman and how quickly Journalism accelerates away from a powerful closer who is rallying from last and had already passed him. You just don’t see anything like that. He left him so quickly it was as if Sandman had stopped running, when it reality he was closing his final eighth in a respectable :12 4/5.
So how fast was Journalism actually closing? Looking at some past Preaknesses for comparison, Seattle Slew, Sunday Silence, and Whirlaway closed their final three-sixteenths in :19 3/5; Silver Charm closed in :19 2/5; Spectacular Bid and Count Fleet closed in :19 1/5; and Smarty Jones closed in :19 flat. Journalism, despite having his momentum stopped and engaging in a roller derby scrum, closed his final three-sixteenths in :18 2/5, with a final sixteenth in under :06 1/5. And remember, Journalism did this after running his six furlongs as fast or faster than the final time of the two big six-furlong stakes on the card
As impressive as those statistics are they don’t come close to reaching the heart of the race.
Last week we referred to the indomitable spirit of the Thoroughbred, which is the storyline that will endure. In describing what we witnessed from the three-sixteenths pole to the finish, we can use words like fearless, unflinching, and tenacious.
The true spirit of the Thoroughbred was not only battling his way out of that melee and the explosive and determined run that followed; it was Journalism’s willingness to put himself in harm’s way because he was asked to by someone he has learned to trust. There is a saying: “If you gain the trust of a horse, you have won a friend for life.”
Another point from my own perspective was that Journalism seemed to be going nowhere at the half-mile pole despite Rispoli already pushing him. At one point on the turn Rispoli cocked his stick right-handed as if to show it to the horse as a reminder it was time to pick it up.
Of course, I can’t put myself in Rispoli’s or any jockey’s head, so this is pure conjecture. I can only surmise that he decided to follow his main threat, Clever Again, whose jockey Jose Ortiiz could sense his presence and looked back over his left shoulder. Journalism, as if given a wake-up call, suddenly accelerated as Clever Again was slowing down. That’s when Rispoli started looking for an outside escape route before Clever Again backed up into him. And that is also when Prat saw what he was doing and, as most jockeys would do, tried to close the door, especially with the strong horse Gosger taking away his path and starting to pull away.
Now it was up to Journalism to make his own door, which he may have, but either Prat or Goal Oriented, on his own, came in on him and that’s when it became scary and initiated what you could call a collective gasp from everyone watching. While all this was happening, Gosger, under Luis Saez, bounded away, opening a five-length lead and looked to be home free.
What Journalism demonstrated after that is the quality of the Thoroughbred that still today brings people, regardless of their class, wealth, or celebrity, to tears and childlike exultation.
When he somehow was able overcame the demolition derby in which he had been involved and still was determined to overtake the only horse still in front of him who seemed uncatchable, no one who was around the horse at Bridlewood Farm was surprised. This was the same Journalism they remembered as a yearling and early 2-year-old trying to establish himself as the leader of the pack. He was intelligent and always knew what he wanted and was willing to do whatever was asked of him. He obviously still is. Sometimes he tried to do too much and had to be reined in a bit by farm trainer Joan “Meda” Murphy, who had put him at the head of the class, along with his Godolphin-owned classmate Sovereignty.
In our column a few weeks before the Derby about Journalism and Sovereignty being broken and raised on the same farm, Murphy said of Journalism, “He was very mature mentally and physically from day one. He was so advanced and always wanted to go. Even when he breezed he did it like an older horse. He was a natural at everything. You show him once, he came back a graduate. It would have been easy to just let him keep going, but I had to stand in his way. I would let him go and then back him down. He and Sovereignty were both alpha horses, but were on different timetables.”
It was apparent that Journalism was determined to do everything possible to become a racehorse and as quickly as possible. And that is the Journalism Murphy saw in the Preakness. All the traits that were born in him and the fortitude he showed from the beginning all came out in that heart-pounding, frantic final three-sixteenths of a mile in the Preakness.
“What I saw was the horse who had fight in his heart and 100 percent confidence in himself,” she said. “He was put in a situation that he had to get himself out of. The natural response is fight or flight. He also was able to use his intelligence and not panic. Most horses would have panicked, and rightfully so, being put in that position. The mind is just as important as the physical. And he has both.”
Trainer Mike McCarthy said he thought he had something after Journalism arrived at his barn last July because the colt had so much confidence in himself and got ready faster than the average 2-year-old. He also was impressed with how professional and well-schooled he was and felt after watching him train, “his mind is his secret weapon.”
Like Murphy, McCarthy didn’t seem surprised at the resolve Journalism showed in the Preakness and all he overcame. He had seen it before in the Santa Anita Derby. “The way he got pocketed down on the rail with Juan Hernandez (on Barnes) keeping him down of the fence and bumping him, I was really proud of him the way he stayed composed and sat there, and when there was running room he was able to finish the job.”
It would be an understatement to say he brought that to another level in the Preakness. But again he didn’t lose his composure despite being in a dangerous situation and “took the blows.” I’m sure you know how the rest of it goes.
Even Respoli said of him before the Preakness, “He’s always been very intelligent; probably the smartest horse I’ve ever ridden in my career. There aren’t many horses that can come out of the Kentucky Derby acting in the way he was acting. For him everything just comes natural.”
Little did he know how much he would owe the horse and how grateful he should be for his intelligence, his courage, and his will to win. And it is that last trait that in the end will define what we saw in the 150th Preakness. The great breeder Federico Tesio said it best: “The Thoroughbred exists because its selection has depended, not on experts, technicians or zoologists, but on a piece of wood — the winning post.”
How Journalism got there on this historic day in Maryland racing is what will be remembered long after the controversies are forgotten.
Photos courtesy of Pat McDonogh/Courier Journal, Jeff Snyder/Maryland Jockey Club, Lloyd Fox/Baltimore Sun
Racing historian, author, and award-winning retired journalist for the Daily Racing Form and The Blood-Horse, Steve Haskin was inducted into the National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame’s Media Roll of Honor in 2016. Known for his racing knowledge and insightful prose, he has been an exclusive contributor to Secretariat.com since 2020.
Does anyone know when the last time the top three Derby finishers raced in the Belmont??
The Friday races at Saratoga, part of the Belmont Stakes festival, is great. Lots of stakes for fillies and mares, the Oaks winner is there. And, lots of entrants in each race.
People complain about the Belmont stakes being held at Saratoga, but, it’s cheaper for trainers to stable horses there, easier to get there by road and closer to Kentucky. CDI had that 6 stakes day last weekend, was it always that way, or was it designed to entries to the Met Mile and other races?
should read “…gut entries to the Met Mile and other races?”
Disco, they were prep races for stakes on Stephen Foster Day, June 28th.
Well the Matt Winn drew FIVE Derby entrants! I hope Matt wins—-me, that is…but why are they carding a 3yo stakes, on Belmont Weekend?….Burnham Square had a brutal Derby trip–he outta be running in The Belmont!
So happy to see Journalism stepped up to the plate, not ducking competition & racing in the prestigious races. His owners & trainer have exemplified the best of the sport—race the horses, especially if they’re good ones. I’m so very disappointed in Mott & Godolphin, so I hope Journalism takes it to them.
What happened to Mystic Dan last year when he “stepped up”?
I may be misunderstanding your question, but you think horses today should not race in all the Triple Crown races? And I believe Journalism is a better horse than Mystic Dan.
What I understand that some fail to is connections have the right to do what’s best.
Nah, it’s ruining the sport by not having the rivalries. I guess Godolphin may go under if they don’t get that big stud deal, right? Their horse was fine and Mott said so after the Derby. The sport needs horses that fans can attach themselves to like Curlin and Rachel. Mystik Dan is one horse and not the caliber of the two favorites in the Belmont.
The sport is being ruined by the irresponsible breeding of speed to spred to speed etc…they no longer breed for stamina….
He didn’t win the Kentucky Derby like Mystic Dan did.
Correct.
As disappointing as the Met Mile is with only 5 entrants, the Woody Stephens looks very competitive with a field of 11 including Patch Adams, Citizen Bull, Neoequos, Chancer McPatrick, and Madaket Road.
The Wonder Again drew 8 with Nitrogen who has been so good. But I noticed an old friend May Day Ready.
The Pennine Ridge drew 10. Zulu Kingdom is in there.
The Manhattan drew 9 with Endlessly, Deterministic, Spirit of St. Louis, Integration, Carson’s Run, and Far Bridge.
The Jaipur drew 10 with the red hot Think Big, Coppola, and A G Bullet coming off a rough trip at very low odds.
It looks like a promising card after all. I hope the weather holds up for those turf races.
The Pennine Ridge is TOUGH ….excited to see how AP Kid does !
Not the best Belmont Day CARD, but it’s a very good Belmont STAKES, the cream of this crop!
Tommy, I share your disappointment with the short field for the Met Mile. This prestigious Grade I contest deserves more respect and participation from horsemen.
Churchill has drawn an interesting field of seven for the Matt Winn Stakes on Sunday.
The entries include five runners from the Derby…… Final Gambit, Chunk of Gold, Burnham Square, Coal Battle and East Avenue. I like East Avenue to turn the tables on Burnham Square.
I still see plenty of support for Journalism. I honestly think that he could go favored.
Does Rispoli still have that mount?
I would be surprised if Journalism goes favored, he was soundly beaten by a New York based horse….and he has found trouble often….I’ll predict…..Sovereignty $1.70……Journalism 2.30……Baeza $3.50……Rodriguez $6……Baeza could get bet down…
Eight horses are entered in the Belmont, but they won’t draw post positions until Monday evening during some kind of a ceremony. Ridiculous IMO.
A monster 14-race card. Get the Forms out ASAP so that players can get busy.
Churchill got it right. They drew post positions on Saturday night, a week before the race.
Evidently, the word is out on Cannoner, set to debut in the 4th race, at Churchill today.
Currently, he’s listed at odds of 1/4. Keep an eye on this 2yr. old Into Mischief colt moving forward.
Bill take a look at Password, who ran 2nd—he was green, and made up a big amount down the lane….
Typical Into Mischief lots of early speed but no stamina in the end… Password made up a lot of ground in the end. Comport was on a mission in this race !!!
Downthestretch
Tell that to Sovereignty, by Into Mischief, who broke his maiden in the G3 Street Sense, his 3rd start. Look for Cannoneer to make amends moving forward.
There’s plenty of stamina influence reflected on Cannoneer’s dam side.
BTW, Hypnus, by Into Mischief, came from off the pace to win a $125k AOC race at Churchill, going a 1 1/16 miles in 1:42.35, (yesterday).
There are countless reasons why Into Mischief commands a stud fee of $250K.
Dismiss Into Mischief colts at your own peril.
Missed my point Bill or let me make my point a little clearer. Sovereignty is a closer and not a frontrunner. Cannoneer was on the frontend in his race and he like Citizen Bull , Barnes and other Into Mischiefs they display alot of early speed on the frontend but for the most part can’t carry it all the way unless they control the pace. This was the case with Cannoneer.
I will dismiss most “frontend” Into Mischief’s until it is clear they are the only early speed
Don’t be surprised to see Cox change tactics in Cannoneer’s next outing.
Instead of setting a rapid pace, look for his colt to rate off the speed, and see if he can use his speed in the late going.
BTW, now that the post positions have be drawn for the Belmont, who do you like for the win? I might go with Baeza (4-1), but it’s hard to go against Journalism (9/5) and Sovereignty (8/5).
With respect to class, the other five entrants are well below the afore mentioned three.
Bottom line, I believe Sovereignty is the horse to beat.
Journalism:47 4/5—-out in 1:26 4/5, Bob B always said if you’re out in under 1:27 you’re golden….
So glad Journalism is running. This definitely adds spice to the race. Would love to see him win 2/3 of the TC. We know he’s capable. Hopefully an outside , in the clear run for Journalism this time.
Should he win….he will be in select company, of horses that lost the Derby then won the Preakness/Belmont—Native Dancer, Nashua, Damascus, Risen Star, Point Given—wow…..
Afleet Alex, too. Well, this is exciting news. Should be quite a race!
I knew there was another—Afleet Alex had a tremendous Triple Crown….it’s even harder TODAY—horses skip the middle leg—Journalism is running for the “keep it the way it is” crowd! Sovereignty and Baeza both look incredible, and Rodriguez will be winging along on the front end….those three, plus Hill Road make it a solid race…plus Journalism makes the 2025 Belmont a great race! It might not be 12 furlongs, but—they got the cream of this crop!
Rodriguez is not going to be winging it alone since Crudo is in the race
And I’m expecting Heart to run a big race
But I do think Journalism is the best horse
Heart has great upside,however expecting Baeza to be in the money.
And Tabasco Cat, Hansel, Little Current, and more from before I was born! 🙂
Tabasco Cat was my biggest ever wager at the time—and remains my second biggest wager…..he won the Preakness and Belmont…got beat a nose, in the Breeders Cup Classic–and finished third, in Eclipse voting—1993 was a tough year..
Little Current had a punishing finishing lick. I was a fan of Cannonade, though. Another exciting closer wss Carry Back.
I know we have some Parchment Party fans in the group. I just saw that he is a possible for the 2 mile Belmont Gold Cup Stakes, but as a main-track only also eligible entrant. If Bill Mott thinks distance is his strength, wonder where he will turn up next?
Speaking of stayers we haven’t seen since November… has anyone seen anything at all about my boy, Next?
I’ve been wondering about Next. Maybe breeders’ cup was an error in judgement?
Yes Katy, there is the Suburban Stakes, the Brooklyn Stakes or the Cougar 11 Stakes.
Katy, checked multiple sources, nothing comes up on Next.
There was Ussery’s Alley—now there’s Mystik Dan’ Alley….
Mystic Dan showed that he is a good horse today. I was right about him but only got 3-1. However, the exacta with Antiquarian paid just under $75 for $2. Not bad.
I was right about Skelly but didn’t come close to picking Durante. The David Jacobson horse. What happens at Oaklawn stays at Oaklawn. Just like Kentucky Downs.
Truth be told, I was wrong about a lot of other things today and ended up losing over half of my bankroll for the day. Couldn’t connect any multi-race wagers. Not a one. Nothing to brag about today.
Hoping for better next Saturday. Belmont Day is my absolute favorite time all year to play the races. Not so much when it’s at Saratoga. Nothing against Saratoga. I just like the tracks at Belmont better. I hope they don’t mess the tracks up with the remodel of Belmont. Whatever, I plan on having fun next Saturday win or lose. A friend once asked me if I could just watch the races without betting? My response: Are you crazy??????
All credit to Ken McPeek for bringing Mystic Dan back to top form. It’s not often a horse can be brought back after losing form, as he did. Certainly not the best KD winner ever, but he is proving to be a game racehorse.
Really happy for the horse. He looked good, and maybe even happy, doing his job today.
Unlike last year.
Great to see the 2024 Derby Winner win—all three of his stakes wins have been rail skimming trips, he loves that rail….
Derby, Derby, Derby and the Belmont Stakes!! That is the war cry for racing fans around the world this Sunday and next Saturday. This Sunday we have the Prix du Jockey Club(French Derby) at the unforgettable Chantilly racecourse while at Tokyo racecourse we have the Tokyo Yushun(Japanese Derby).
The following Saturday we have the Epsom Derby and the Belmont Stakes to contemplate but let’s concentrate on France and Japan first off.
At Chantilly, Siyouni is represented by two highly talented colts Nitoi and Sinileo. I’ve been waiting on Nitoi for this race only to be presented with the almost impossible post position of 18. Glum!! Sinileo has a much more favorable position with 4 but with only one race behind him it’s a hard task. Both colts are trained by André Fabre.
While in Tokyo, the multitalented Croix du Nord by Kitasan Black looks as though he will keep marching on to glory but, with another field of 18, as in France there can be much to overcome. Don’t miss theses races, both are sire making races pas excellence!!
As for the Epsom Derby and Belmont Stakes it’s really too early to guess or is it? Yes, it is, the weather could change everything from here. Enjoy the fabulous racing on Sundays or Mondays for some people. Ha ha
Davids, going with Croix du Nord in the Japanese Derby.
Fingers crossed, Lynda, with Croix du Nord. By the way, did you know the favorite for the Epsom Derby is Delacroix by Dubawi out of Tepin.
Imagine that, Tepin produces an Epsom Derby winner. Such a loss so early.
Loss of Tepin was tragic.
Never heard why, not that it matters I guess.
Still the fans who follow these horses after their racing days do like to know.
Did you read Romantic Warrior had something show up in the required scans?
One screw was inserted and it was standing surgery.
Already back in stall at trainer’s barn.
He will enter rehab when the Vet gives the all clear.
RW has won over 26 million in USD.
Amazing!!!
Yes Lynda, I did read that Romantic Warrior had surgery and was recovering. It has happened many times before running a turf horse on a dirt track with poor results afterward.
There is a whole lot of difference training on dirt surfaces than competing at the top level on dirt with turf runners. Mind you, that might not have been the cause.
Great win by Croix du Nord!!
Still trying to get my head around Chantilly and the races in France.
Doing pretty good with European and Japanese races.
Congratulations to Mystic Dan, he won today.
Only two entries in the Met Mile. Nyos withdrew, running in a different race.
Leaves Fierceness and White Abarrio. Race might be canceled.
Nysos won the Grade 3 Triple Bend Stakes in style today. That’s shocking about the Met Mile, it’s one of the highlights of the year. I’d be happy just watching White Abarrio and Fierceness fight it out.
Lynda, with the French Classic horses, the French trainers slowly build them up so as to compete in the Arc carnival in October when they are at their best. The English/Irish trainers tend to divide their horses more, they have their good horses for fast ground and their good horses for soft ground.
Purse for Triple Bend win was $60,000.
Always been said the BB has a talent for picking races he thinks his horse can win.
Triple Bend was a confidence builder for NYSOS. Only his 2nd race since the layoff. He would have loved to have run him in MET MILE but it was looking to be coming up a little tough so he went with the Triple Bend … Baffert said he will probably point him for the Pacific Classic and if all goes well the BCC. He doesn’t know when his next race will be but I would think the San Diego Handicap at Del Mar.
Saw at least 3 probables for his next race.
Thanks for info on the French.
Will keep that in mind about both the French and Engliish/Irish trainers.
Croix du Nord prevails to win the Derby.
Yes Lynda, Croix du Nord came back to win in style. I’m hoping the Arc is on his agenda but that could be next year.
Davids, I was thrilled to see Camille Pissarro get through that hole and win the Prix du Jockey Club. Some really good 3YOs in Europe this year.
Yes, Ms Blacktype, a brilliant ride by Ryan Moore. That is true, I think this year could be a special year. The two Siyouni colts didn’t perform well in the French Derby but don’t discount them they are extremely talented.
In European racing the trip is everything to launch that exhilarating speed down the stretch. Ryan Moore could have been trapped so easily where he was but Moore extricated Camille Pissarro perfectly. A lesson for some jockeys here?
This Saturday we have the ‘Big Daddy’ of the Derby world the Epsom Derby. Weather and post are vital here. What a great weekend of racing coming up.
For those who enjoy trivia, Blood Horse has an article, “History By the Numbers – Belmont Stakes”.
It’s 2025, Horse Racing is putting out a good product—the Kentucky Derby had it’s highest viewership in 36 years…
Sports in general….aren’t p utting out a good product—NFL & NBA went political…NBA players making $30 million—sit out games HEALTHY! College players arrive to their classes in Lamborghinis cars! The WNBA have a special player—and she is hated, for her skin color……
Bit Horse Racing puts out a terrific product!—People are waiting to see their best horses…..Derby had the viewers—Preakness did not, because the Derby Winner stayed in the barn….like the NBA—he was healthy…..a few years ago—Flightline had his 6-race career—a horse of a generation—should have run another year, and Sovereignty should have run in The Preakness—they gave him only two preps, supposedly to save him for….what? The Triple Crown?….It’s 2025 and people are ready and waiting to see the horses—-race..
All true. Sports figures were once considered heroes, despite their flaws. Now, the players are more petulant than heroic. The horses still have something special, but their people often have priorities that run counter to what made racing great. Your examples of Flightline and Sovereignty are top of the list.
It’s not all true, it’s one person’s opinion, designed to knock Sovereignty again because his connections didn’t enter him in the Preakness, and elevate his favorite, by comparison, as the upcoming Belmont approaches.
The NHL playoffs have been great, nobody seems spoiled and they’ll soon be playing for the Stanley Cup.
How was I “elevating” Journalism, he did not win The Derby—you missed my point completely…
You also knocked two major league sports, probably because you didn’t like the playoff results. You should say, it’s your opinion, your favorite, your spin, because that’s all your statements are. Yet you state them 5 or 10 times, to most others’ one time. Do you get 10 votes at election time? Your side is the best?
Read what he wrote. His post was nothing about journalism. He isn’t even knocking Sovereignty. He is knocking the connections. If you don’t see that they were wrong than, it is what it is. It hurt the sport when it is on an upward trend.
They were’t wrong. Not about what individuals not involved wants. Ask Mystic Dan how that worked out last year.
Disco, always maintained Bill does what is best for his horses. Didn’t upset me cause he skipped. Agree with your post.
I love Hockey. My favorite net sport. Speed, violence and grace. Don’t know of any other Pro League where the players would demand to play MORE games to be able to represent their countries. The Hurricanes are out, so… Go Oilers!
That Oilers/ Stars game was great, especially the 3rd period, even with the difference in the score. They no longer block the net constantly, the bad turn hockey took the last 10 years. They skate long again and pass.
Good comments Matthew
Well, Man of War wasn’t entered in the Kentucky Derby. The owner or trainer thought it was too far for the young horse. There is precedent for this decision.
RE: Race 4, $120K maiden, at Churchill, June 1st. (5 1/2 furlongs).
It’s never too early to start looking at this year’s crop of 2yr. old colts. Cannoneer, by Into Mischief, out of Catch the Moon, by Malibu Moon, is set to debut in referenced race, for Brad Cox. In his most recent work on 5-26, he went 4F, in 46.60, (3-21), so it appears this Stonestreet homebred colt is ready to fire, on Sunday.
BTW, Connoneer sold for $1.75 million at auction, so there’s been high expectations from this Into Mischief colt from the get-go. He’s certainly a colt to keep an eye on moving forward, IMO.
Baeza looked good tonight, walking into Saratoga! He’s large framed and fit!
Yes Matthew. Baeza has a good trainer. Looking for him to run well.
They all look good (see American Promise) it whether they show up and perform when it counts.
I showed a picture of Baeza standing on track to my husband. He said, “he looks like a cavalry horse or a QH in that shot. Look at the bone and hip on him!” We think he is best looking of Puca’s boys so far.
If I was Resolute, I would have a hard time deciding whether to send the Mage sister to the track at all. What could a daughter of this amazing mare bring to the table in the shed? Robert Clay still has a Puca mare he is excited about, too.
I really feel like I’m living in the twilight zone as comments pile up laying all the blame on Rispoli. Yes, he came through a very narrow opening, but he had the horse to get through cleanly if Prat didn’t pull his horse in two paths and try to drop Journalism. From any angle, it is obvious Prat came in dangerously, and I don’t know how he wasn’t taken down for forcing Journalism into the rail horse. Sorry to belabor the point, but I find the prevailing opinions mystifyingl
Good comments! You aren’t belaboring the point.
It’s funny how you and I can watch the same race and see it completely different. All Umberto Rispoli had to do was go wide. He was on a horse that was 8 to 10 lengths better than any other in the race. Rispoli caused the entire very dangerous incident. It’s very obvious. I’m mystified that some people see it so differently.
Turn the page. On to the Belmont at Saratoga.
It looks like that in hindsight, but I have to wonder if Rispoli, who knows his horse so well, actually realized how much was left in the tank. Watching his finish seems to have amaze literally everyone. I remember once when Secretariat did something similar, Turcotte said “maybe he just got mad.”
That’s how it looked to me, too.
This is a fantastic written oiece Steve. It is one of your best.
I am glad that Journalism wasn’t taken down but I believe he sure should have been.
What Rispoli did was endanger the lives of at least 3 excellent horses & 3 jockeys.
There is no excuse for that. Having grown up in the 1950s & 1960s, Rispoki reminds me of Manny Ycaza. Very reckless & one who takes too many risks.
Why did Rispoli have Journalisn out of position in the 1st place. He got him pinned down on the rail. am very happy no one got hurt but I would definitely remove Rispoli as his jockey. I hope Journalisn doesn’t bounce in the Belmont Stakes (assuming he runs).
Sovereignty will be tough to beat especially with the extra 3 weeks rest.
Deacon,
You have a right to give your opinion here on Rispoli. I don’t totally agree or disagree with it but I feel Prat initiated the infraction by trying to squeeze Journalism when he had open track to the right of him. And I agree with Gloria that hindsight is 20/20. Nobody could have imagined Journalism could accelerate the way he did and that includes the jockey.
Remember what Steve said above …. he did the final 3/16 in 18 2/5 !!! Unheard of !!!
A six-horse Belmont would be disturbing. But I understand why horses are not lining up to face the “big-3”.
What am I missing with Rodriguez? He just doesn’t seem nearly as good as Sovereignty, Baeza, or Journalism. Maybe it’s his pace advantage that people are drawn to. But I don’t think that any of the “big-3” will have any problem running him down. Even if Saratoga is speed biased on Belmont Day. But I’m wrong all the time. Fortunately, I’m right sometimes too.
I’m going to try to beat Skelly on Saturday. He’s coming off 107 & 110 BSFs in his last 2 races. That even sounds crazy to me as I type it into my computer. But I have to stick with what works for me. The funny thing is that Skelly is listed at 7-5 on the ML. I figure him for 2-5 or 3-5. Of course, I’m the knucklehead that thought Journalism would be 3-5 in the Preakness. He was 6-5 before clicking down to even-money as they were loading into the gate. Which seemed generous for a “sure-thing”. That was before I got reminded by the incident at the top of the stretch that there are no “sure-things” in this game.
Happy Is A Choice..
For those who have seen him perform it was sad to read that the valiant stayer, Kyprios, has been retired due to a reoccurrence of ringbone lesion.
Kyprios won 8 Group 1 wins and even more incredible won 17 out or 21 starts and only twice out of a place. The word Champion is his hallmark.
Dsvids, it is fortunate that Kyprios raced as long as he did and won 17 out of 22 starts.
Good decision to retire him.
Ringbone can eventually cripple a horse as it is progressive.
Not had personal experience with the condition but know people who have.
Thanks Lynda, you could tell after Kyprios’ last race Aidan O’Brien was much more concerned than he was willing to speculate on while being interviewed.
Great horse, always the one to beat.
Hi Steve, though I can get there too rarely these days, that’s what brings me back to the track every time. It’s always about the horse. I think if you’ve ridden or even just been close, you understand. Thank you for this one. Angela
Off topic but Keeneland will host 2026 BC and new Belmont Park in 2027.
Yes. I saw an artist’s rendering of the new Belmont grandstand in an article announcing this. It looked like the mothership in “Close Encounters of the Third Kind.”
LOL
Haha, I think it looks like a 1970’s shopping center, wish they had used brick.
LOL
Probably intentional. Have you send the rendering of George Lucas’s Museum of Narrative Art in LA? It really looks like a starship. Google it.
Ms B, HaHa it does look like it.
But oh so cool, even if way off topic.
I’m SO happy about Belmont!!
Thanks Steve! Loved that piece! You’re the Hemingway of Horseddom!
Love your comment and it is so applicable to Steve!
Oh come on, John. There are MUCH better writers to compare Steve to than Hemingway.
Ha ha the same train of thought crossed my mind as well.
Faulkner perhaps?
I was thinking of someone more recent. Maybe E.L. Doctorow? I just reread “Ragtime,” which came out 45 years ago (!) and is still a masterpiece. Or just to confine it to sports, there’s Red Smith of course David Alexander, who wrote my favorite racing book, “A Sound of Horses.” Steve is in excellent company.
Or Tennesse Williams, maybe Edgar Allen Poe?
The way my year is going it’s more like Stephen King !!!
You poor thing.
Seriously I hope everything improves for you.
Thanks for your thoughts Lynda ….. hoping for better times ahead. But my car A/C just gave out today and I live in Phoenix AZ were the temperature today was over 104 !!! Luckily I have an extended warranty on it… Glass is half full (LOL)
Sounds like you are having one of my weeks.
Hang in there, it will get better!
We have had days of rain here.
Hay farmers are running way behind schedule for spring hay.
This coming week forecast is 5 days of sunshine, no rain and temperatures in the 80’s.
Always a thin line for them. Need rain for hay to grow, but need at least 3 rain free days with sunshine and temps in the 80’s to put up the hay before nutritional value is lost because it is over mature.
The 2 best sports writers in history are Steve Haskin & JIm Murray
A collective “Yikes!!”
I was not at all surprised, that Baeza skipped The Preakness—I WAS surprised about Sovereignty—an eastern based Derby Winner that skipped the middle jewell? I know he looks good…I LIKE him….but Godolphin wasn’t interested in winning the Triple Crown? Really? ..
I wish I could say that Sovereignty skipping the Preakness was a surprise to me but with Mott’s conservative racing / training mindset it wasn’t. Though when I heard he was skipping the Preakness and waiting for the Belmont I thought it was a mistake until I found out later the Belmont once again would be run again at 1 1/4 miles instead of 1 1/2 miles at Saratoga. He is more competitive at 1 1/4 mile than 1 1/2 mile due to pace scenario… JMO.
Baeza got into The Derby at the last minute, he was excluded from the post draw…and suffered a wide trip—had he been In front of Sovereignty—ypu just never know…..he comes into The Belmont reminding me a bit—of Touch Gold—-not the favorite, BUT—I won’t be surprised, if he wins..
Rispoli finally said something that made sense – he said that he was starting to angle out and the horse didn’t ‘take him’ there like he expected him to do from past rides, so he went inside instead when that opened up (temporarily, as we saw).
Steve,
Your last two columns are priceless !!! The first with recalling classic moments in Pimilco history ( you probably could have written a book of the memories that track has produced) and then this weeks on the retelling of Journalism’s one to remember great Preakness finishes.
I woke up the Sunday after the race turned on the TV and went to YOUTube to recite my daily rosary. After I was done with that I went back to the main menu and there I saw NBC full race of the 2025 Preakness. I put that on as I wanted re-watch what happen to American Promise (another poor performance) and again that bummer car finish for Journalism. I have to admit I watched that stretch run at least 12 times and I just kept replaying that stretch run in amazement. Steve , I am sure you have watched this ending of the race several time and became emotional as I got ( I liked the sentence from above ” The quality of the Thoroughbred that still today brings people today, regardless of their class, wealth, or celebrity , brings tears and childlike exultation ” ( no truer words said ) as I found my eyes welling up in tears ( I don’t know if it was because what I was seeing was something I couldn’t believe and Larry Collmus race call were he went from being resolved that Journalism’s was going to finish 2nd to one of delirium that Journalism can actually win the race. It truly was a finish for the ages.
As far as the ride controversy I still blame a lot of it on Flavien Prat as he had plenty of room to his right to drift out and if he truly believed he had the horse under him to win the race he would have no need to squeeze Journalism out. Rispoli did what he did because I am sure that was his only chance….. I don’t think he believed (like many of ua did not know either ) that Journalism could accelerate in the stretch like he did. That was a WOWSER moment as you pointed out Steve…. final 3/16’s in 18 2/5 that’s SMOKIN !!!
As far as American Promise again I was disappointed. I thinking it was a combination of over training ( why jog a horse 2 miles the day before the race when he already has a solid foundation ) and poor ride execution were I feel the jockey could have been more aggressive in the beginning to try and get the lead. But one thing is for sure he lacks the mindset of his daddy Justify or for that fact … Journalism.
Thanks again Steve for WOWing us with your great column.
One other thing I did not think Journalism looked tired after the race and feel if he runs in the Belmont he has one more great race in him.
And as for Sandman I think Sovereignty is the better closer and beats him 10 out 10 times.
Who wins the Belmont will depend on how the race sets up.
Steve—I wonder if Braulio Baeza will be at The Belmont? He’s 85 now—Is he still a steward?
I was at Hollywood Park on the mid 70’s, and track announcer Harry Henson welcomed Baeza, to the track and he got a huge applause….he was tall in the saddle..
Harry Henson a class act and will always go down with me as one of the greatest race callers of all time !!!!
Walking into Hollywood Park and Del Mar…the voice of Harry Henson gave me goosebumps….
That gravelly voice of his was unforgettable. Those race winning calls of Native Diver are still etched in my mind just like Trevor Denman of Zenyatta.
Braulio Baeza was also at Hollywood Park in 1968 when he rode Dr. Fager to a 3 length victory in the Californian Stakes. I was there, I actually had a brief hello with John Nerud. That was a dream come true for me.
Gamely finished 2nd in that race…………..great memories.
Braulio Baeza Jr. has been a New York steward for many years–as far as I know, he still is–but I don’t think his father, the jockey, ever was. I too have wondered what Braulio Sr. thinks of the horse named for him. I tried to find out if anyone had interviewed him on the subject, but I couldn’t find anything. Reporters might be missing a good story.
Thank you for pointing out what I witnessed while being on the rail at Pimlico. When he was passed by Sandman and I saw him kick it in gearI was like at least he gets 2nd. Than I felt like Richard Dreyfus in “Let It Ride.” I just knew he was gonna get there and win. It was just AWESOME to see and enforced how great this sport can be.
What a thrill it must have been to see Journalism’s move in person!
I have no disagreement with what Journalism did after breaking through a small opening. My main concern is what kept the Stewards from ruling a foul and interference against him. The what ifs are many and potentially fatal. Are we to assume that an amazing final run to the wire should eliminate the job of the rule setters? Should we just go to the carnival and watch kids in bumper cars beat up on each other? I can barely watch the NBA finals and put up with what looks like kick boxing. Are we no longer a country of rules?
Does that apply to all the many dangerous rides Irad is a part of?
My comment applies to all races and riders and stewards. Decisions about whether a rider and horse interfered with others needs to be based on evidence and not tainted by horse, owner, rider or trainer.
Yes William, too true. I bet it crossed many a punters’ mind that if Journalism had been owned by Joe Hobo, trained by Mary Unknownes, and ridden by Flyboy Smartass in the same manner as master Rispoli the colt would have been taken down within a minute. Let’s not kid ourselves.
Sure. And I can’t count the various times Irad has nearly cause an accident….. and got away with it.
I think Irad has been doing very well lately. But unfortunately the Preakness may have set a new standard for everybody.
Exactly, Jiffy. The same thought crossed my mind. I’ve been highly critical of Irad Ortiz’s ‘reckless tactics’ in the past but from my eyes Ortiz Jr has quelled these for a more professional approach.
For the 150th Preakness Stakes all I will remember is that racing in general dodged a bullet caused an idiotic performance by jockey or jockeys mentioned believing they will get away with unscrupulous tactics.
The Maryland stewards resolve/explanation was absolutely pathetic, shame on them, another black mark on US racing.
Davids, often wisdom comes with time and a realization that we are not as immune to reckless behaviors as we thought ourselves to be in our younger days.
Irad has 3 beautiful little girls, one born recently I think. Perhaps he has come to the realization that his young daughters need for him to be there for them as they grow up.
Being a jockey is one of the most dangerous occupations/careers to have..
Excellent point, Lynda. I never thought of that but you are probably spot on, moreover, his brother no doubt pointed out the same thing to him.
It has been so pleasing seeing Irad Ortiz Jr reform his previous reckless behaviour. John Valazquez has been such a shining example to all jockeys.
Davids, Thanks.
As to Johnny V, I agree.
Mike Smith too.
Ypumean that is all you will remember?…I cannot recall a horse getting stopped, making up five lengths on a horse that was not slowi g down, like that—racing dodged a bullet, then a horse showed fight fight fight…..
Matthew W, my comment had nothing to do with Journalism or the Prrakness , only with Irad.
Jockeys take risks all the time to win a race.
Calvin Borel for example would ride the rail to victory.
Johnny V slipped through a tiny hole on the rail some years ago to win the Belmont.
Multiple times a year we hear of jockeys being seriously injured or dying.
Victor Espinoza had a brush with death that he recovered from but his career never made it all the way back.
Riding horses, regardless of discipline is dangerous. Even more so a 1,000 lb plus horse running speeds up to 40 miles per hour in a group of other horses and jockeys doing the same.
(Was commenting to David’s! sorry I was not clear—this site does not show that)
Matthew, did you miss the post where I stated “Bravo for Journalism on his performance” just below your post? I just can’t ignore what might have happened, the shock of viewing the total disregard for safety by Rispoli, in particular, for other jockeys and horses is what I’ll remember.
Over the years, I’ve seen a lot more outstanding performances than what Journalism provided in the Preakness Stakes.
Journalism is a STAR……..period!
“For the 150th Preakness all I will remember is Racing dodged a bullet”—my reply was addressed to that post–is all….no offense intended, ….
All good, Matthew.
David’s….what do you think about Carl Spackler going to Royal Ascot? He also likes soft turf—then to Austrailia? I think he has a big shot at success!..
Matthew, you will have to keep an eye on the weather. It varies a lot from one extreme to the other.
In Australia, Sydney is wet most of the time, in the past 42 days, 40 days had rainfall. Melbourne is basically dry most of the time. The Australian Sprinters are much better than the Europeans.
Mike, I think it should apply to any jockey that rides carelessly. I have seen horses DQ’d for less. My dad was at Santa Anita & saw jockey George Woolf (Iceman) fall from a horse & died the next day.
My dad always said that Woolfe, Shoemaker & Arcaro were the best best jockeys he ever saw.
Thanks Deacon for the useful info. Interesting.
Totally agree, William. Bravo for Journalism and his performance but that performance would have been nullified in any other racing nation by a disqualification. The racing rules in the US are an absolute farce, misinterpreted by an assortment of jokers stuffed with guile and insincerity.
What about the poor punters losing their money? Does anyone care that they are, or appear to be, being duped out of their money by some shenanigans playing fast and loose with race rules.
No wonder US racing is flailing, racing can never look unfair in the public’s eye. Hence, the present controversy.
Great article, Steve. You always convey the love of the horse. Thank you!
Journalism is a warrior.
Mopotism’s pedigree is loaded with the broodmare sires I like to see. Beyond the obvious, there’s something special I noticed about her pedigree: it doesn’t take many generations to pick up ancestors with stronger percentages of/more direct ties to Byerley Turk blood – and she gets this both from her sire and dam.
The Byerley Turk was the first born of the original three foundation sires. He was an actual warhorse – the mount of Captain Robert Byerley when he fought in Ireland. Capt. Byerley wrote that he owed his safety to his horse, whose “superior speed” kept him from being captured. Although the sireline (in Thoroughbreds) is nearly extinct, I think that the Byerley Turk’s legacy lives!
Very interesting, Katy. Thank your for sharing. Journalism is a War Horse for sure!
Katy, If you trace the pedigrees back to 1600’s you will find Turk (also known as Turkomen) horses. They are thought to have originated in the Orient or Asian Steppes.
They were slender horses standing 15 to 16H, sloping shoulders but very muscular.
You might be familiar with the Akhal- Teke. They too were of Turk bloodlines and used for war horses because of their speed and stamina.
Prior to the development of the Thoroughbreds based on the 3 most known foundation sires, the Godolphin, The Byerley Turk and the Darley, there was already horse racing in England. The breed that was common for horse racing was the Turk. The master of the horse for King James l had seen the Turks race in the mid 1600’s.
The Turk horses were brought to England either as gifts to the Kings and Queens or were brought to England by soldiers (like the Byerley was) only earlier.
Another breed that was influential on the Thoroughbred was the Barb (aka Berber) from North Africa (Morocco). They were known for stamina, endurance and speed over short distances. The most famous Barb was owned by King Richard ll. The Barbs were very popular in racing stables among the nobility as early as the 14th century.
If you study the pedigrees of Thoroughbreds going back to the 15th century you will see references to Barb mares.
Most Thoroughbreds today can be traced back to the son of Darley named Barlete’s Childers. He was out of a mare named Betty Leedes who was Barb, Turk and Moroccan. There is an early Arabian in her pedigree (her sire) called the Leedes Arabian (1680).
Through genetic research and DNA studies it has been proven that the Arabian, the Turk, the Barb, the Akhal-Teke, and a now extinct line of Connemara ponies all influenced the origins of the Thoroughbred breed.
On a previous post I mentioned the famous Arabian war mares. As the legend goes, a trumpet was sounded which was a call to war with another Bedoiun tribe. 8 mares came flying first. The mare was highly treasured by the Bedouins, more so than the stallions. When the tribes had races in the desert, the winner could select a horse from the losers as their prize. Invariably they selected mares.
It is unfortunate I think that so little attention is given to the Thoroughbred mares in the US, all the attention goes to the stallion. And it is unfortunate that broodmare sires like Bernardini, Secretariat and Storm Cat are often disparaged.
Mares are competitive and win against colts, stallions and geldings in every horse sport from dressage to reining including racing and in every country in the world except for the United States. That is something else I have often wondered about.
Another great analysis of this unique Preakness, Steve. Journalism’s closing fractions were incredible. What a horse. I really thought he would be a Triple Crown winner, but the racing gods saw otherwise. He should have a championship year. Thank you for your great writing and insights.
He ran great in the derby….Sovereignty ran even better…
I hope these two hook up several times, including Breeder’s Cup—- then we’ll get a true measure of which horse is better. Should be a thrilling season!
Steve, thank you for a wonderful discussion of Journalism’s background and his race in the Preakness.
Had Journalism and Sandman not run in the Preakness, this would have been a Grade 1 in name only. If horses from the Derby keep skipping the Preakness, it could lose its Grade 1 status, as so many other great races have, like the Hollywood Gold Cup, the Jockey Club Gold Cup, the Beldame, and many others.
Perhaps last year Mystic Dan needed to skip a race or two after Derby considering he was tanked after the Belmont.
If only McPeek had thought of that…tto win the TC you almost have to sacrifice the rrst of your career….theres a list a mile long ofhorses that never won/ran again….the TC is a grind even for the winner…
Dominic, your points are ON POINT!!!
Steve, This isn’t really germane to today’s column, but…If you could dig up any feature you’ve done on Christophe Clement, it would be most appreciated. I don’t recall you having done any, but you must have following Tonalist’s victory in the Belmont, or maybe with Gio Ponti. He seemed like such a nice man – never heard him make excuses, blame the jockey or track conditions for a loss, and he always had that half-smile like he knew a little secret. Such widespread respect and acknowledgement of the massive loss to our sport with his passing. Thanks.
Tragic passing! CC one of the good guys in racing.
Thanks for your comments on the untimely passing of Christophe Clement. He was one of the classiest trainers in the business; and he was outstanding as trainer and as a human being. And he trained with all of the best trainers in the business. Wishing his son and assistant the best of luck in keeping his stable going. And sending my sincere condolences to all of his friends, family, employees, and associates.
Excellent piece, Steve.
Journalism’s hole reminds me a bit of the situation Secretariat encountered in the Sanford Stakes. Big Red’s hole was much less hairy, though – figuratively & literally ☺️
Sure does hearken back to Secretariat’s Sanford! Remember, Secretariat was a mere two-year-old. He raised his head above the fray, and bravely wedged through to everyone’s amazement. It was the race where Charles Hatton really fell in love with the colt.
Gloria-
Your comment inspired me to re-read the passages in Bill Nack’s Secretariat Biography re: his Sanford Stakes & his quoting of Charles Hatton’s write-ups about it. It was there I had learned Mr. Hatton was the author of the immortal summary of Secretariat: “His only Point of Reference is himself.”
That Biography was my 1st introduction to Charles Hatton. What a vivid, witty & erudite writer he was! Since then, I’ve enjoyed reading his 1972 & 1973 pieces (the duration of Secretariat’s career) in the American Racing Manual & in what I can find of his Columns written for the Daily Racing Form.
The many Tributes to the deceased Mr. Hatton were so interesting & affectionate. I think it would’ve been quite something to know the man. He died too young at 69; what a shame that he didn’t have enough Retirement years to possibly write his Autobiography.
I can understand both arguments about the incident in the stretch. But there’s no argument that Journalism’s Preakness heroics were awe inspiring. I sure hope he runs in the Belmont at Saratoga. It could be epic.
Agree Roberta.
I think it will be epic…but i think sovereignty wins…
Today is the $200K gr2 Hollywood Gold Cup—I attended the 1978 $350K gr1 Hollywood Gold Cup …richest purse in the country that year….
I think Sovereignty AND Baeza are top class, top tier animals—It would not surprise me if they both neat Journalism, in two weeks…I think Journalism is ..better than both–he was outfinished by both, in The Derby–and might be again—but the year is long….John Shirreffs said an interesting thing….I quote; ” We didn’t run in The Preakness because I don’t want to get to the bottom of my colt just YET”….it’s one thing to run in all three, but this colt ran a tough two races….Art Sherman told me what hurt Chrome in The Belmont was his Preakness was tough….
Astute comments Matthew. Agree with your take on John Shirreffs.
Great summary of the win by Journalism in the Preakness Steve. Hoping the top 3 finishers all show up and are ready to run.
The top 3 finishers from the KY Derby, just to clarify.
Agree Joe! Also, what you stated about Zenyatta.
Hoping Journalism can cement his legacy in the Belmont. Mike McCarthy is a quiet guy, but it feels that he has been seeking vindication since the KD. This will be a difficult test, with five solid horses each having reasons to believe they could win at Saratoga. I know I feel heavily invested in the outcome, for several reasons, and I’m hopeful everyone gets a fair shot with Journalism coming out on top
Steve, you’ve revealed that Journalism’s feat in the Preakness was even better than it looked — and it looked jaw dropping. MY jaw dropped when you compare his last 3/16s to that of Seattle Slew, Sunday Silence, Spectacular Bid and my goodness, Count Fleet. He ran 4/5s of a second faster than the 1942 Triple Crown winner, and more than a second faster than all the other greats you mentioned. Great piece!
I had the same reaction, Ms Blacktype. Steve, this is magnificent! Thank you!
It looks like a very small field – & unfortunately there appears no one to run with Rodriguez….
Rodriguez is a nice horse, but doesn’t concern me.
I feel like it’s going to be a fairly bunched field…
Funny some say John can’t train lol when he has Baeza.
Who said that? It’s ridiculous. Couldn’t be anyone who knows about horse racing.
Roberta, a few “experts” on another site trashed him. What a joke!
Mike I know the sute—they’ call him names! *Old Hippie”?….I’ve said fir years—if I had a horse I’d want John Shirreffs—Giacomo…Zenyatta..Life Is Sweet…Tiago….Baeza—and old Express Train….he has trained some talented horses…he brings them along slowly—Baeza broke his maiden but John waited two months, for the SA Derby, and the one shot—and he waited for The Belmont—this is likely not going to be his only trip east—
Exactly Roberta.
I’m no fan of John, so no comment
No prob Betsy. Many trainers that I dislike would never be able to get Zenyatta to the gate without ruining her.
Zenyatta was one for the ages Mike. I will always remember. ‘Zenyatta is dead last’ & ‘ This is Un – Be – Lievable’.
Someone wrote that Journalism lengthened stride by two feet in last 50 yards….he went and got Gosger—Journalism is a horse that needs to be ridden, to get him to respond—not all horses can do things easily…I agree with you Steve–what that horse did is something ypu rarely see in a dirt horse—he recovered, from his rough trip—and then he found another gear—after the race I thought there’s no way he’s going to be in the Belmont…..that race had to drain the tank—but he’s there, at Saratoga—we will know he WON’T be going, if they don’t work….and we will know if they are going if he works well..
I would say that Steve Haskin’s column sums it up perfectly.
We can now turn the page to the Belmont at Saratoga.
Post positions for the Belmont will be drawn a week from today on June 2nd.
BTW, I “gasped” myself at that incident at the top of the stretch. It was scary.
Me also Tommy.