Journalism Wins San Felipe Stakes, Solidifies Kentucky Derby Spot

The 3-year-old colt overtook favorite Barnes to claim victory and earn crucial Derby qualifying points.

Journalism, a 3-year-old colt trained by Michael McCarthy, won the $300,000 San Felipe Stakes at Santa Anita by 1¾ lengths.
The victory earned Journalism 37.5 Kentucky Derby qualifying points, bringing his total to 47.5 and likely securing his spot in the May 3 race.
Jockey Umberto Rispoli guided Journalism from fourth place on the backstretch to a decisive stretch run, overtaking odds-on favorite Barnes.
The field was reduced to five horses after Berlin Wall scratched, resulting in a 25% reduction in Derby points for all finishers.
Trainer Michael McCarthy and Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, Journalism's ownership group, expressed optimism for the colt's continued improvement on the Triple Crown trail.