Rail Trip makes a grand comeback in the Grade 2 San Diego Handicap at Del Mar
After getting derailed, Rail Trip is back on track, as he proved announced his return in style when he roared to victory in the Grade 2, $200,000 San Diego Handicap at Del Mar on 28th July, 2012, with the help of jockey, Jose Valdivia Jr.
Running over a distance of 1 1/16 miles, the charge of Ronald Ellis snapped his losing streak, and came out on top to a half-length difference from John Scott, who is under the wing of trainer, Carla Gaines.
The third place was secured by Kettle Corn, while Take Control and Mobilized finished fourth and fifth, respectively.
The pace of the race was set by John Scott, with Rail Trip at his heels. He took the lead in the closing stages of the race and efficiently completed it in 1 minute and 43.14 seconds.
The son of Jump Start, foaled by Carson City mare Sweet Trip, has a particular liking for synthetic tracks, since all his victories have come over the poly tracks.
The winning trainer was immensely pleased with the results of this race and told the press that:
“It was great. It was awesome. I think he really needed a win."
Ellis further stated:
"The thing I’ve noticed about him since he came back was he didn’t have that swagger he did when he was winning. I think this race will help him get that back."
The seven-year-old’s last victory took place in June, 2010 in the Grade 2 Californian Stakes, and this win was more than welcomed by his connections.
He was shipped off east and came back to Ellis’s care just a few months ago. The trainer’s diligence showed with this race.
Now, the Jay Em Ess Stable owned runner holds an overall record of 9-6-1 out of 20 starts. Things are looking up for this older division runner, and he is returning to his winning form. He is likely to head to the Grade 1 Pacific Classic on 26th August, 2012.
Rail Trip also holds an entry in the Grade 1 Breeders' Cup Dirt Mile at Santa Anita Park in November, 2012.
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