Stark Contrast joins Journalism on Michael McCarthy’s Breeders’ Cup team

Key Takeaways:

• Stark Contrast is a 2-year-old who captured the Zuma Beach Stakes title at Santa Anita.
• This victory qualifies him for the Juvenile Turf race at the Breeders’ Cup.
• The event is set to take place at Del Mar from Oct. 31 to Nov. 1.
• The young horse will partner with Journalism on Michael McCarthy’s team.
• The original report was published on 2025-10-06 by Whittier Daily News.

Stark Contrast’s Momentous Santa Anita Victory

Stark Contrast, a 2-year-old racehorse, recently made waves by securing a decisive win in the Zuma Beach Stakes at Santa Anita. The triumph, which came as a noteworthy achievement for such a promising young horse, sets the stage for broader aspirations as he eyes the Breeders’ Cup.

A Ticket to the Juvenile Turf

This Santa Anita victory was not just another race result—it opened the door for Stark Contrast to compete in the highly anticipated Juvenile Turf event at the Breeders’ Cup festival. Gaining entry to this race is recognized as a significant feat, often heralding the potential emergence of new stars in the world of thoroughbred racing.

Michael McCarthy’s Breeders’ Cup Ambitions

Trainer Michael McCarthy has confirmed that Stark Contrast will join Journalism, another talented horse under his care, as part of his Breeders’ Cup team. The pairing underscores McCarthy’s confidence in his stable’s depth and ability to make a strong showing at one of the sport’s biggest stages. While the focus now turns to Del Mar, both horses’ preparation and conditioning will play a pivotal role in the results on race day.

Marking the Calendar

The Breeders’ Cup festival is scheduled to unfold at Del Mar from October 31 to November 1. These dates promise a high-energy spectacle, drawing top contenders in numerous categories. By clinching a place in the Juvenile Turf, Stark Contrast will share the spotlight with some of the finest young horses, making this an event to watch for racing enthusiasts.

Looking Ahead

With his recent performance, Stark Contrast has already shown the potential to become a notable figure in thoroughbred racing. Enthusiasts will be eager to see how he adapts to the challenge of a world-class field in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf. For now, his unexpected rise adds another element of excitement to Michael McCarthy’s lineup, setting the stage for a compelling performance in Del Mar this fall.