Journalism confirmed to make 4-year-old debut in Oaklawn Handicap

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – Journalism will launch his 4-year-old season in the Grade 2, $1.25 million Oaklawn Handicap on April 18, according to an announcement made on social media by co-owner Eclipse Thoroughbreds.

Jose Ortiz has the mount in the 1 1/8-mile race for which weights were issued Friday. Horse of the Year Sovereignty, who is expected to run in the Oaklawn Handicap, is weighted at 123 pounds.

Skippylongstocking, who was assigned top weight of 124 pounds, is likely to make his next start in the Alysheba at Churchill Downs, trainer Saffie Joseph Jr. said Tuesday.

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Joseph said White Abarrio remains on course for the Oaklawn Handicap. He is weighted at 121.

Journalism, who was second to Sovereignty in last year’s Kentucky Derby then won the Preakness Stakes, is weighted at 119. He worked Friday morning at his Santa Anita base, and went five furlongs on a fast track in 1:00.60. He will be making his first start since finishing fourth in the Breeders' Cup Classic on Nov. 1.

According to the social media post, trainer Michael McCarthy said following the work that plans would be to proceed to the Oaklawn Handicap. The post also said Journalism will race in the silks of Michael Tabor.

The draw for the Oaklawn Handicap is scheduled to take place at 12:20 p.m. Central on Sunday and it will be broadcast on both the FOX Sports program America’s Day at the Races and Oaklawn’s simulcast feed, according to track executive Zack Gillham. First post Sunday is 12:45 p.m. Central.

– additional reporting by Steve Andersen and Nicole Russo

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