Journalism Horse: The Story of a Kentucky Derby Standout

Journalism horse racing in the 2025 Kentucky Derby

The annual Kentucky Derby always brings excitement, and in 2025, no name has captured more headlines than the Journalism horse. As the race's early favorite, Journalism has become a focal point for both seasoned racing fans and casual viewers eager to follow a standout competitor.

Journalism Horse: The Rising Star of Churchill Downs

Entering the Kentucky Derby with impressive speed figures and a strong winning streak, the Journalism horse quickly stood out. Trained by Michael McCarthy, this remarkable thoroughbred earned a reputation thanks to consistent victories and a unique backstory tied to its owner's appreciation for journalism. According to the NBC News live coverage, the horse’s name honors co-owner Aron Wellman’s time as a high school newspaper editor. This personal touch has endeared the Journalism horse to fans and the media alike.

Recent Performances and Odds in the Derby Field

The road to the Derby wasn't easy, but Journalism posted an impressive Beyer speed rating of 108 in one of its most crucial prep races. This number placed it at the top among all contenders in 2025. As noted in USA Today's latest odds roundup, Journalism entered the Run for the Roses as the 7-2 favorite. The field was packed, featuring twenty elite horses from across the globe, with Journalism holding strong among tough competitors like Sandman and Sovereignty.

Why Fans Are Drawn to the Journalism Horse

There’s more to Journalism’s story than just the numbers. The horse has captured public imagination through a combination of impressive performances and a narrative that transcends the usual racing clichés. As covered in NBC's in-depth Kentucky Derby update, experts highlighted that Journalism faced new challenges in 2025. Not only would it compete outside of California for the first time, but the field size and unpredictable race dynamics at Churchill Downs added to the suspense.

Derby Day Highlights and Outcome

On Derby day, heavy rain resulted in muddy track conditions at Churchill Downs, bringing further unpredictability to the event. Despite challenging circumstances, the Journalism horse lived up to expectations by finishing second in a dramatic race. Crowds cheered as Sovereignty crossed the finish line first, with Journalism and Baeza close behind. The outcome cemented Journalism’s reputation as a resilient and crowd-pleasing favorite.

For a comprehensive recap of race day, including live updates and final standings, visit NBC's Kentucky Derby results.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Journalism Horse?

Securing the second spot at the Kentucky Derby is a remarkable achievement but also marks a new beginning for Journalism. With a stellar track record and strong fan base, future races hold great promise. The world will continue to watch as this charismatic competitor represents thoroughbred racing at its best.

Final Thoughts

The story of Journalism horse at the Kentucky Derby is a shining example of why fans love this sport. Between a meaningful name, exceptional speed, and relentless determination on the track, Journalism exemplifies the magic of elite horse racing. Whether you're a lifelong enthusiast or a newcomer, keep an eye on Journalism horse in upcoming events — more thrilling moments are surely ahead.