Vernon, NY – Driver Leon Bailey drove five winners including the featured $8,500 pace with Merrow at Vernon Downs on Saturday (Nov. 1).
Merrow took the early lead, but Bluesville (Ron Harp) took over just before hitting the quarter first in :27.3. Syracuse Express (John MacDonald) came first-up to challenge heading down the backstretch. Bluesville held on to a short lead to the half in :55.3. He led to three quarters in 1:23.3.
As they reached the stretch Merrow popped out of the pocket and took over the lead. Gold Star Sven (Steeven Genois) came flying late in deep stretch, but Merrow dug in and won by a head while equaling his lifetime best of 1:52.1. Bluesville had to settle for third.
Merrow ($5.76) is a 3-year-old colt by Stag Party. He is owned by Suheil Ashkar and trained by Joe Sansone. It was his eighth win this season. He now has 10 career victories.
Bailey got his other wins with American Sunshine, Captain Conan, Taxi Out S, and Aces Or Bettor.
Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Friday (Nov. 7) with a post time of 5:05 p.m.
For more information go to www.vernondowns.com.