By John Horne, for Vernon Downs

Vernon, NY — WesternToro, with Jimmy Whittemore driving, captured the Vernon Downs $3,500 featuredpace Wednesday (July 4).

John MacDonald sent Gingertreefinneganto take over just before the first quarter and they set the early fractions of :26.4,:56.2 and 1:25.4.

Western Toro made hismove going first-over from third place heading for the three-quarterpole. Owned and trained by Robert Gale, he hit another gear and blew rightby to easily win in 1:53.4. He paid $20.

Release the Terror firedlate to finish second and Prince Aland was third.

Western Toro is a9-year-old gelding by Western Ideal. It was his first win this season andcareer victory No. 15.

Dan Daley won a drivingdouble with Muscle Up Hazel ($5.80) and Pegasus Point ($7.80).

MacDonald and trainerMisty Carey combined to win a double as well. They got their wins withSharkbite Mike ($3.10) and Big Game ($3).