Hollywood Park: John Scott headed for stakes

Shigeki Kikkawa

John Scott is being considered foir a stakes start on Del Mar's synthetic surface.

INGLEWOOD, Calif. - John Scott is bound for a stakes at Del Mar later this summer after outfinishing Rail Trip, the winner of the 2009 Hollywood Gold Cup, in Thursday’s sixth race.
Ridden by Victor Espinoza for trainer Carla Gaines, John Scott led or disputed the pace throughout the 1 1/16 miles of the race, and held off Rail Trip to win the optional claimer by a half-length in 1:44.25.

“The horse is a fighter,” Gaines said.

Plagued by injuries earlier in his career, John Scott was fourth behind Lookin At Lucky in the 2009 Norfolk Stakes at Santa Anita. A gelding by Bertrando, John Scott did not start again until April of this year, and has won 2 of 3 starts in his comeback.

Gaines said plans for John Scott’s next race will be discussed with owner-breeder John Harris. One option is the $200,000 San Diego Handicap over 1 1/16 miles on the Polytrack synthetic surface at Del Mar on July 28.

“He’s already won at Del Mar and he’s won at Hollywood Park,” Gaines said. “As far as synthetics, we know he’s a good synthetic horse.”