Who owns Journalism, the 2025 Kentucky Derby star? Dive into his inspiring story and racing legacy in this fun, engaging read!
Table of Contents
Picture this: a sleek bay colt named Journalism thundering down the stretch at Churchill Downs, his hooves kicking up dirt as the crowd roars.
May 3, 2025, and the 151st Kentucky Derby is in full swing.
This horse is not just running for glory—he carries a story that’s got everyone talking.
From his catchy name to his powerhouse owners, Journalism is the horse to watch.
So, who owns this rising star, and how did he become the darling of the racing world?
Grab a mint julep, and let us dive into the tale of Journalism, the colt stealing hearts and headlines.
Journalism: The Colt with a Big Name and Bigger Dreams
Journalism is not your average racehorse. Born on a chilly February morning in 2022 at Don Alberto Corporation’s Kentucky farm, this colt was bred for greatness.
His dad? Curlin, the legendary 2007 and 2008 American Horse of the Year, won the Preakness and Breeders’ Cup Classic.
His mom? Mopotism, a speedy mare with a quirky name and a knack for winning. With that kind of DNA, Journalism was bound to turn heads. However, it is not just his bloodline that makes him special—his grit, his heart, and a name that’s got people buzzing.
This three-year-old has been on a tear.
He kicked off his career with a solid third-place finish at Santa Anita in 2024, but he hit his stride this Year.
Wins in the San Felipe Stakes (G2), Los Alamitos Futurity (G2), and the Santa Anita Derby (G1) have cemented his status as a top contender for the Kentucky Derby.
With earnings topping $338,880, Journalism is not just fast—he is bankable.
Trained by Michael McCarthy and ridden by the talented Umberto Rispoli, this colt has the whole package: speed, smarts, and a knack for making every race exciting.
Who is Behind Journalism? Meet the Owners
So, who is lucky enough to call Journalism their own?
The colt is owned by a dream team of racing heavyweights led by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners.
Aron Wellman, who runs the show at Eclipse, is a former sports editor who traded headlines for horse racing.
He named journalism a nod to his roots and the colt’s mom, nepotism. “I loved the idea of a name that tied to her ‘-ism’ vibe,” Wellman says with a grin. “Plus, it is a shoutout to all the hardworking reporters.”
Eclipse is not alone in this venture.
They are joined by Bridlewood Farm, Don Alberto Stable, Elayne Stables 5, and Robert V. LaPenta, a big name in racing with a knack for spotting winners.
In a blockbuster move, Coolmore’s crew—Derrick Smith, Mrs. John Magnier, and Michael Tabor—signed on as lessees before the Santa Anita Derby.
That deal also secured Journalism a cozy retirement gig at Coolmore’s Ashford Stud.
This group spent a cool $825,000 on Journalism at the 2023 Fasig-Tipton Saratoga Sale, and their investment is looking pretty smart right now.
Why the Name Journalism Hits Home
Okay, let us talk about that name.
Journalism is not just a clever word—it is a conversation starter.
This horse feels like a four-legged cheerleader for the Fourth Estate in a world where newsrooms are fighting to stay afloat, and reporters are battling misinformation.
Washington Post columnist Kevin B. Blackistone called Journalism “a symbol of an industry under siege,” and fans are eating it up. Every time this colt crosses the finish line, it is like a win for truth, grit, and good storytelling.
Wellman did not set out to make a statement.
He just wanted a name that felt right.
Mopotism, named by her former owner Paul Reddam (who has a thing for “-ism” names), gave him the spark.
“We were tossing around ideas, and Journalism just clicked,” Wellman says. “It has got that Claiborne Farm vibe—short, punchy, and tied to the pedigree.” It is personal for Wellman, whose family has deep racing roots but also universal.
Who does not root for a horse that stands for something bigger?
Training Journalism: A Team Effort
Behind every great horse is a great trainer; for Journalism, that is Michael McCarthy.
If the name sounds familiar, it is because McCarthy trained Rombauer to a Preakness win in 2021.
He has a knack for getting horses to peak at the right moment, and Journalism is no exception.
“This colt is a dream to work with,” McCarthy says. “He is smart, listens, and has this quiet confidence.”
Recent workouts at Churchill Downs, like a five-furlong breeze in 1:01.40, show Journalism’s ready to roll, even after a wet track delayed one session.
Jockey Umberto Rispoli is the other half of this dynamic duo.
He has been aboard Journalism for all his stakes wins, and their chemistry is undeniable.
“He is like a friend out there,” Rispoli says. “You ask him to go, and he just gives you everything.”
Journalism’s racing style—calm early, explosive late—makes him a perfect fit for the Derby’s 1 ¼-mile grind.
Whether stalking the leaders or biding his time, this colt knows how to close the deal.
What Makes Journalism a Fan Favorite?
Journalism is not just a horse—it is a vibe.
Fans love his story, from his underdog beginnings to his meteoric rise.
His name sparks chats at the betting window, with folks joking about backing Journalism over a rival like Publisher.
“It is the ultimate hunch bet,” Wellman laughs.
“Who would not bet on a horse that sounds like he is fighting for truth?”
However, it is not just the name. Journalism’s performances—think that 3 ½-length romp at Los Alamitos—leave crowds cheering and bettors cashing tickets.
Journalism’s appeal is simple for casual fans: He is fun to watch. He has that classic Derby contender look—muscular, focused, and with a stride that eats up ground.
For diehards, it is his pedigree and versatility.
Curlin’s stamina plus Mopotism’s speed?
That is a recipe for a classic winner.
Add in a team that’s all-in, and you have a horse that feels like he is running for everyone who believes in a long shot.
The Road to the Kentucky Derby
Getting to the Kentucky Derby is not easy, but Journalism has made it look like a breeze.
His path started with that debut at Santa Anita, where he showed promise but needed polish.
When he hit the Los Alamitos Futurity, he was a different horse—confident, assertive, and ready to dominate.
The San Felipe and Santa Anita Derby win sealed his spot in the field, earning him enough points to start from the No. 7 gate on May 3, 2025.
That gate is a good spot, by the way.
It has produced eight Derby winners, including Justify in 2018.
With a clean break and an innovative ride from Rispoli, Journalism’s got a real shot at the roses.
His team’s feeling good, too. “He is peaking at the right time,” McCarthy says. “The horse is happy, healthy, and ready to run his race.” Win or lose, Journalism’s made history as a horse with a story worth telling.
Trivia: A Fun Fact About Mopotism
Did you know that Journalism’s mom, Mopotism, was a star on her own? Named by Paul Reddam for her “mojo” and a playful jab at nepotism, she won the 2018 La Canada Stakes and banked over $876,090. Now, as a broodmare, she is passing her magic to Journalism!
Conclusion: Cheer for Journalism and Keep Exploring
Journalism, the horse, is more than a Kentucky Derby hopeful—he is a reminder that great stories can come from anywhere, even a racetrack.
Owned by a passionate crew led by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, trained by Michael McCarthy, and ridden by Umberto Rispoli, this colt has the heart of a champion.
His name, journey, and sheer talent make him a horse to root for, whether you are a racing nerd or love a good tale.
As he lines up at Churchill Downs, we will all be holding our breath, hoping for a win that feels like a victory for dreamers everywhere.
Loved learning about Journalism?
There is tons more to explore on our site!
From the history of the Derby to tips for picking your next favorite horse, we have stories that’ll keep you hooked.
Comment below and tell us why you are cheering for Journalism, or share your racing memories.
Stick around, check out our other articles, and let us keep the racing spirit alive!
About The Author
