Journalism Returns to Del Mar for San Diego Handicap

Journalism, the accomplished son of Curlin, returns to Del Mar on Saturday to compete in the G2 San Diego Handicap. This event, a 1 1/16-mile race, serves as a local preparation for the upcoming Pacific Classic. Trainer Michael McCarthy highlighted the advantage of the horse racing at a familiar venue, stating, "It's nice to have a home game for him," instead of air travel.

McCarthy described Journalism as an "impressive, physical specimen" and a "bigger, stronger horse this year." This season, Journalism has secured two third-place finishes outside of California: in the G2 Oaklawn Handicap in Arkansas and the G1 Met Mile at Saratoga. He will be reunited with jockey Umberto Rispoli for the San Diego Handicap.

The field includes notable rivals, such as Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile winner Full Serrano, trained by John Sadler, who has a strong affinity for Del Mar with multiple wins and seconds at the track. Full Serrano's recent form includes a third-place finish in the Pegasus World Cup and a fourth in the G3 Oaklawn Mile.

Trainer Phil D'Amato will field two entries: Shea Brennan, who recently won the Bertrando Stakes with a surprising display of speed, and Iron Man Cal, who narrowly missed winning the Breeders' Cup Juvenile Turf at Del Mar in 2024. The race also features Mirahmadi, a two-time runner-up in Del Mar stakes, and McVay, who finished third in the G2 Gold Cup.