Vernon, NY — Capt Jack Hanover (John MacDonald) captured the $8,500 Open Pace at Vernon Downs on Saturday (Sept. 6).
Bluesville (Ron Harp) flew out of the gate and led to the first quarter in :27.1. He slowed things down and used a :29.3 second quarter to be first to the half in :56.4. Prospectors Gold (Steeven Genois) was first to make a move, going first-up heading around the final turn. Bluesville led to three quarters in 1:25.1.
As they reached the stretch, Capt Jack Hanover ($4.34) popped out of the pocket as third-place finisher Twin B Kingston (Frank Affrunti) slipped through on the inside, making it three across the track. Capt Jack Hanover got by in time to win in 1:52.4. Bluesville had to settle for second.
Capt Jack Hanover is a 7-year-old gelding by Captaintreacherous. He is owned by Michael Kessler and Speed To Burn Racing, and trainer MacDonald. It was his 15th win this season. He now has 38 career victories.
MacDonald had a driving triple. Frank Affrunti and Chris Long had driving doubles.
Live racing returns to Vernon Downs on Friday (Sept. 12) with a post time of 3 p.m. For more information, go to www.vernondowns.com.