Journalism Surges to Victory in the 2025 Preakness Stakes

On Saturday, May 17, 2025, Journalism won the 150th Preakness Stakes at the Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore in an exciting race. The 6-5 favourite, ridden by rider Umberto Rispoli, defeated Gosger, a longshot at 15-1, by a half-length after overcoming a late charge. The three-year-old displayed incredible tenacity by rallying from behind to win the Kentucky Derby at the last second, even though Journalism had a good performance as the favourite and finished as the runner-up.

An Exciting Conclusion

There were difficulties in the race. The horse's rhythm was briefly disturbed when Journalism was bumped by Goal Orientated as the field neared the far corner. But Rispoli brought his horse back into the race, and it looked like Journalism may lose again in the closing stages. However, Journalism closed strongly and passed Gosger right before the finish line in a stunning push.

Journalism was praised by jockey Umberto Rispoli, who had been ridden the horse since it won the Santa Anita Derby. "He is a serious horse based on his performance in his first run up to the Santa Anita Derby.” In an interview conducted prior to the race, Rispoli observed, "He does his business like an older horse." "I am incredibly proud of him."

Looking back on his first Preakness mount of his career, Rispoli said he was relieved and happy to have won. "When I first came to the United States, you can’t really realise what the Triple Crown means until you go with a favourite horse to ride at the Kentucky Derby," he stated in a post-race interview with NBC. "For four nights following the Derby, I was unable to sleep. This eases some of the anguish, and I'm grateful for the chance."

Trainer's Happiness

Journalism trainer Michael McCarthy won the Preakness for the second time in his career. He said that he was hoping his horse would place second once more. "I kind of accepted that it was another outstanding attempt, perhaps falling just short, when I saw it. However, this demonstrates the heart of this horse," McCarthy said, obviously pleased with his charge's performance.

The Historic Pimlico Racecourse

Being the last Preakness Stakes to be raced at Pimlico event Course before to planned renovations, Saturday's event was historic. Pimlico, sometimes referred to as "Old Hilltop," will be completely rebuilt, with a new facility planned and the grandstand scheduled to be demolished. The Preakness Stakes will go to Laurel Park in 2026 as part of the upgrades, with plans to bring the renowned race back to Baltimore in 2027.

Taking a look Ahead

In terms of journalism, this triumph gave it a much-needed boost following the defeat in the Kentucky Derby. In the winner's circle, Rispoli joined supporters in celebrating his victory, solidifying his legacy as a Preakness champion. The 150th Preakness Stakes will always be regarded as a momentous last race at this storied track as Pimlico gets ready for a significant overhaul.