Scorpiancer wins Lonesome Glory; Grand National next

NEW YORK (AP) Scorpiancer won the final major prep before the Grand National, taking the $150,000 Lonesome Glory Handicap by 2 1/4 lengths Thursday at Belmont Park.

The $350,000 Grand National on Oct. 15 at Far Hills, N.J. is the nation's leading steeplechase race.

It wasn't an easy trip for the 3/5 favorite after lagging in seventh entering the far turn.

''I was worried, to be honest,'' winning trainer Jack Fisher said. ''I was a little concerned, but he kept coming.''

The 7-year-old gelding bred in Ireland rallied six wide in the stretch to catch the pacesetting Charminister and edge clear for his fourth victory in 13 starts over hurdles.

Sean McDermott was aboard for the 2 1/2 miles in 4:46.69.

Scorpiancer paid $3.40, $2.90 and $2.20.

Jamarjo got second, returning $3.80 and $2.40. Charminister held on for third, paying $3 to show.