Vernon, NY – John MacDonald drove five winners on the night, including the $6,000 featured fillies and mares’ pace with Peggy J, at Vernon Downs on Friday (May 21).

Driver John MacDonald, who won five races on Friday night, guides Peggy J to victory in the Vernon Downs feature. Fotowon Photo.

In the featured ninth race, Lady Dudette (Kyle Cummings) jumped out to the early lead and led to the first quarter in :27.2.  Jericho Diva (Leon Bailey) was first to make a move and took the lead to the half in :56.3.  Peggy J moved her way up to second and battled the leader all the way around the final turn, but Jericho Diva still had a slight lead as they hit three-quarters in 1:25.2.

As they made the turn for home, Peggy J came at Jericho Diva with all she had.  Jericho Diva tried to hold firm, but Peggy J was too much for her winning by a length in a lifetime best of 1:53.2 and paying $4.60.  Jericho Diva held for second money as Sheer Talent (Justin Huckabone) finished third.

Peggy J is a 4-year-old mare by Quality Western.  She is owned by Paula Sarcone and trained by Jeff Sorenson.  It was her fifth win of 2021 and 11th of her career.

MacDonald got his other wins with Anchor So Reel ($6.50), Culinary Artist ($7.80), Notwithoutafight ($3.30), and Cash N Chrome ($12.40).

Everyone at the track had a heavy heart with the news of the death of Vernon Downs’ legend Howard Okusko Sr.  He was known as the nicest guy at the track.  As a driver he won nearly 600 races.  As a trainer he won 800 races.  As a person there was no one better.  Rest in peace Howard Okusko Sr., Vernon Downs will never be the same without you.

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (May 22) with a 10-race card starting at 6:10 p.m.

For more information go to www.vernondowns.com.