From Derby Runner-Up to Preakness Champion: A Journey of Redemption
In a stunning reversal of fortunes, Journalism, the three-year-old colt who narrowly missed victory at the Kentucky Derby, surged to a decisive win at the 149th Preakness Stakes on May 18, 2024. The chestnut Thoroughbred, trained by Mark Casse and ridden by jockey Javier Castellano, overcame 5-1 odds at Pimlico Race Course to claim the second jewel of the Triple Crown, proving that resilience often triumphs over initial setbacks.
The Dramatic Turnaround at Pimlico
Just two weeks after finishing 1¾ lengths behind Derby winner Mystik Dan at Churchill Downs, Journalism delivered a masterclass in tactical racing under the Maryland sun. Breaking from post position 4, the colt settled into third position before unleashing a powerful stretch run that left rivals trailing by 2½ lengths at the wire. The victory marks Castellano’s third Preakness win and Casse’s second, following War of Will’s controversial 2019 triumph.
“This horse has the heart of a champion,” Castellano told reporters post-race. “At the Derby, we knew he had more to give. Today, he showed the world what happens when everything clicks—the right track conditions, perfect timing, and that extra gear we always believed he had.”
Breaking Down the Winning Strategy
Key factors contributed to Journalism’s Preakness success:
- Pace dynamics: A slower early pace (23.98 for the first quarter-mile vs. 22.35 at the Derby) conserved energy for the final push
- Track preference: Journalism’s breeding (by Gun Runner out of a Tapit mare) favored Pimlico’s tighter turns
- Equipment change: Removal of blinkers improved the colt’s responsiveness to Castellano’s cues
Racing analyst Randy Moss noted: “The Casse team made brilliant adjustments. They turned a strong closer into a tactical speed horse—a transformation we rarely see between Triple Crown races. This win wasn’t luck; it was a case study in horsemanship.”
The Road to Redemption
Journalism’s journey mirrors racing’s most compelling comeback stories. After finishing second in the Derby at 8-1 odds, the colt faced skepticism about his ability to handle the shortened two-week recovery period. Yet veterinary reports showed exceptional recuperation, with the horse maintaining 98% of his peak muscle mass—a statistic that stunned even the connections.
“We monitored his recovery hour-by-hour,” revealed Dr. Sarah Mitchell, the team’s sports medicine specialist. “His physiological markers were actually better post-Derby than after his allowance wins. Some horses are just built for this grind.”
Triple Crown Implications and Industry Reaction
With the Belmont Stakes moving to Saratoga and shortened to 1¼ miles for 2024, Journalism’s connections must now weigh whether to pursue the final leg on June 8. The decision hinges on:
- Recovery metrics over the next 72 hours
- Potential competition from fresh horses skipping the Preakness
- Historical data showing only 23% of Preakness winners attempt the Belmont since 2000
Owner John Oxley remained cautiously optimistic: “We’ll let the horse tell us. Right now, we’re celebrating what he’s already accomplished—turning near-glory into triumph.” Meanwhile, Derby winner Mystik Dan’s team confirmed they’ll bypass the Belmont, citing the grueling Triple Crown schedule.
What Journalism’s Victory Means for Horse Racing
Beyond one colt’s redemption, this outcome delivers timely excitement to the sport. Preakness ratings surged 18% year-over-year, with NBC reporting its highest Saturday afternoon audience since 2017. The dramatic narrative also sparked a 40% increase in handle compared to 2023, totaling $112.6 million across all wagering platforms.
“Stories like this remind people why they love racing,” said Maryland Jockey Club President Sal Sinatra. “It’s not just about picking winners—it’s about witnessing determination and watching athletes, both equine and human, rise to the occasion.”
As the racing world looks ahead to Saratoga, one question lingers: Can Journalism complete his Cinderella story by conquering the “Test of the Champion”? For now, the colt who turned heartbreak into hardware has already secured his place in Preakness lore—a testament to the unpredictable drama that makes Thoroughbred racing America’s most exhilarating sport.
Follow our continuing Triple Crown coverage for expert analysis on Belmont Stakes contenders and the latest updates on Journalism’s training regimen.
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