Vernon, NY — Tomas and trainer-driver Artie Dick went from last to first and won the $8,500 Open Pace on Saturday (July 29) at Vernon Downs.

Seventh Secret (Frank Affrunti) went straight to the front and was first to the quarter in :27.1. He used a :28.2 second quarter and was first to the half in :55.3. Syracuse Express (John MacDonald) came first-up going around the final turn as Warrawee Unique (Barton Dalious) came three-wide. Seventh Secret had a short lead at three-quarters in 1:24.

Tomas ($7.00) was fifth at three-quarters but came flying down the lane like a freight train and blew by them all to win going away in 1:51.3. Warrawee Unique was second best. Syracuse Express took home third money.

Tomas and trainer-driver Artie Dick circled the field in Saturday’s Open Pace at Vernon Downs. Fotowon photo.

Tomas is a 6-year-old gelding by Art Major owned by White Yeti Racing. It was his fourth win in five starts this season. He now has nine career victories.

Dick had a training-driving double on the card. Wade Tomaszewski and John MacDonald had driving doubles. Richard Tomaszewski had a training double.

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Friday (Aug. 4) with a starting time of 4 p.m.