Vernon, NY — Leading driver Leon Bailey added another big night to his season, collecting a six pack at Vernon Downs on Friday (July 17).
Bailey is well on his way to his fifth dash title at Vernon. In 11 opportunities on the 13-race program, he reached the winner’s circle with Better Double Flip, Chaparista, Discus Hanover, Ariana Isonthehunt, Wayward Bluechip and Zapaca. Bailey also finished second twice and third on one occasion. His 65 victories currently lead the Vernon driver standings.
Despite Bailey’s dominance on the card, favored Uncle Rat and driver Chris Long captured the featured $8,500 Open Trot.
Chapvious (Bailey) took control early from Post 3, reaching the quarter first in :29. She continued to set the tempo up front with a :30.4 second panel, leading the field of five through a :59.4 opening half. What A Mission (Michael Miller) moved first-up and challenged for the lead heading around the final turn. Chapvious maintained a narrow lead to three-quarters (1:28.2), but that was short lived.
As they headed down the lane, second-place finisher Tiktok Roy (Jimmy Whittemore) slipped through along the inside, while third-place finisher Chaparista raced between rivals as Uncle Rat ($2.94) came flying three-wide to win by three parts of a length in 1:56.1.
Uncle Rat is a 4-year-old gelded son of Uncle Peter. He is trained by Rob Harmon for owners Go For Glory Stable LLC, Matthew Lamont, and Harmon Racing Stable LLC. It was his ninth win this season, and 12th of career victories.
Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (July 18) with a post time of 5:05 p.m. For more information visit www.vernondowns.com.