Rail Trip captures San Diego Handicap

Jul 29, 2012 - 1:37 AM Del Mar, CA (Sports Network) - Rail Trip, racing just off the rail, snapped an eight race losing streak by winning the 71st running of the San Diego Handicap on Saturday at Del Mar. The San Diego is the major prep race for the $1 million Pacific Classic on Sunday, August 26.

The San Diego is also a Breeders' Cup "Win and You're In" race. The win by Rail Trip gives him an automatic spot in November's Dirt Mile at Santa Anita.

Ridden by Jose Valdivia Jr., Rail Trip broke from the far outside post in the seven horse field. Also in the race was defending San Diego winner Tres Borrachos.

Following a slight delay when Kettle Corn acted up in the gate, the pace in the 1 1/16 mile race was set by 3-1 favorite John Scott. Pressing the pace from the outside was Rail Trip at 9-2 followed by Tres Borrachos, Prayer for Relief, Kettle Corn, Mobilized and Take Control.

Around the final turn, Rail Trip drew even with John Scott and jockey Victor Espinoza. Coming out of the turn, Rail Trip, trained by Ron Ellis, took a short lead over John Scott with Kettle Corn moving into third.

Down the stretch, Rail Trip was able to hold off John Scott and post a half- length victory. Kettle Corn finished third followed by Take Control, Mobilized, Prayer for Relief and Tres Borrachos.

Rail Trip stopped the timer at 1:43.14 on Del Mar's synthetic main surface.

Owned by Jay Em Ess Stable, Rail Trip recorded his first win since capturing the Californian at Hollywood Park on June 10, 2010. During the losing streak, five of the losses came while being trained by Rick Dutrow.

The San Diego win was worth $120,000 and was the ninth career victory for the seven-year-old gelding in 20 starts. Rail Trip has banked $1,253,790. The win was the first in the race for both trainer and jockey.

Rail Trip paid $11.20, $5.60 and $3.80. John Scott returned $5.60 and $3.60, and Kettle Corn paid $2.60 to show.