John Hancock signed his name to the list of GI Kentucky Derby contenders with an ultra-game victory in the Sam F. Davis S. at Tampa.
A good-looking debut winner sprinting at the central Florida oval, John Hancock went off the slight favorite over his more accomplished foe Owen Almighty in this step up to stakes company and first try around two turns. Leaping from the gates to take immediate control, the chestnut took plenty of heat from his market rival through snappy early fractions.
Under heavy pressure every step of the way, John Hancock showed the way into the lane with Owen Almighty glued to his flank. The leading duo pulled away from the rest of the field and it was clear it was a two-horse race from there. Owen Almighty headed John Hancock halfway down the lane, but the gusty chestnut would not be denied, turning back his experienced rival for a half-length success. He earned 20 points towards a spot in the Run for the Roses in the process.
“It was his first time facing winners,” said trainer Brad Cox. “It was the second start of his life. It was his first time going long. It was a lot to ask from a young horse. He took a lot of pressure and stayed on well. I’m very, very impressed with him.”
Cox is considering several options for John Hancock’s next start, including the GI Arkansas Derby, GI Blue Grass S. and GII Wood Memorial S.