Following in the Footsteps of Best Pal and Arabian Knight, Journalism Seeks Glory

Only Six Sophomores Have Ever Captured the Pacific Classic; Curlin’s Son, Ranked Just Behind Sovereignty, Aims to Join the Elite in What Could Be an Unforgettable Afternoon

Arabian Knight (inside), the Most Recent 3-Year-Old to Win the Pacific Classic / BENOIT PHOTO

DEL MAR, California (Special for Turf Diario).- Over the years, the top handicap performers have formed the backbone of the Pacific Classic (G1) at Del Mar, contested over 1¼ miles. Conceived in 1991 to showcase older horses, the race has grown into a key steppingstone to the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1).

From time to time, a filly challenges the males. In 34 editions, just six have tried—including the Argentine mare Paseana (Ahmad)—and only one succeeded: the unforgettable Beholder (Henny Hughes) in 2015.

Yet the true spice of the Pacific Classic often comes from the three-year-olds: either Triple Crown stars or late bloomers hitting their stride in the second half of the year. For many, it represents a formidable test—racing older, more experienced rivals with greater physical maturity.

In 34 prior editions, 19 three-year-olds faced the challenge, and six triumphed: Best Pal (Habitony) in 1991, General Challenge (General Meeting) in 1999, Came Home (Gone West) in 2002, Dullahan (Even the Score) in 2012, Shared Belief (Candy Ride) in 2014, and last year’s Arabian Knight (Uncle Mo). Notably, several high-profile attempts fell short, including War Emblem (Our Emblem, 2002), Tiznow (Cee’s Tizzy, 2000), and Dramatic Gold (Slew O’Gold, 1994).

This year, all eyes are on Journalism, a powerful Curlin colt who has cemented himself as the second-ranked three-year-old in the country, just behind Sovereignty (Into Mischief). His heroic victories from off the pace in the Preakness Stakes (G1) and Haskell Invitational (G1) have propelled him to the forefront of his generation.

“Running at home outweighed any other consideration,” said trainer Michael McCarthy, explaining the decision to enter the Pacific Classic. “Obviously he’s at the top of his generation with Sovereignty, but he’s still giving up experience, age, and maturity.”

McCarthy noted the lack of a major dirt race for three-year-olds at Del Mar left few options, with the alternative being a trip to Parx Racing for the Pennsylvania Derby (G1) on September 20.

“It’s good to play at home,” summarized owner Aron Wellman. “Since late April, he hasn’t stopped traveling—Kentucky for the Derby, the Triple Crown races, then a cross-country trip to New Jersey for the Haskell. Getting back on a plane again just didn’t appeal.”

In the Pacific Classic, three-year-olds carry six pounds less than older horses, who shoulder 124 pounds. When Best Pal won in 1991, the difference was eight pounds; it dropped to seven in 1992 and has been six since 2009.

Bob Baffert, familiar with guiding elite three-year-olds to victory here, has won with General Challenge and Arabian Knight. “By this time of year, good three-year-olds are ready to face older horses,” he said. “Top horses like ‘Pharoah’ (American Pharoah) can handle it.”

For John Sadler, timing is critical. “In winter, no one dares run three-year-olds against older horses, but summer into fall is a natural progression. And here, the weight allowance can be significant, especially over a mile and a quarter.”

Saturday afternoon will reveal whether Journalism is among those exceptional three-year-olds capable of transcending his age and taking down older rivals like Fierceness (City of Lights) and Nysos (Nyquist). Based on what we’ve seen so far, there’s plenty of reason to dream.