Vernon, NY – Driver Leon Bailey drove five winners including the co-features at Vernon Downs on Friday (April 24).
Bailey captured the $8,500 Open Trot with City Of Hope, who was first to the quarter in :28.4. Sweet Valley (driven by Chris Long) took over the lead heading down the backstretch and led to the half in :57.3 and to three quarters in 1:26.
As they reached the stretch, City Of Hope popped out of the two hole and zoomed on by to win in 1:55. Doc Nixon (Jimmy Whittemore) came up late to finish second. Valottalove (John MacDonald) was third.
City Of Hope is a 6-year-old gelding by Met’s Hall. He is owned by Philip Hale and trainer David Dewhurst. It was his second win in 2026. He now has 33 career victories.
Huntressville A (Bailey) charged late to win the $8,500 Fillies & Mares Open Pace.
Cyclone Sister (Kyle Swift) went straight to the front and led to the quarter in :27 and was first to the half in :57. She was joined by Quarrel (Chris Long) heading around the final turn. Cyclone Sister was first to three quarters in 1:25.3.
As they made the turn for home, second-place finisher Cyclone Sister and third-place finisher Quarrel were shoulder to shoulder. Huntressville A came flying three-wide as she swooped right on by to win in 1:54.
Huntressville A is a 7-year-old mare by Huntsville. She is trained by Joe Skowyra for owners William and Sarah MacMillan. It was her second win this season and her 19th career victory.
Bailey got his other wins with Yo Jo, So Diva, and Muscle Dan. John MacDonald had a driving double. Michelle Warner and Jessica Okusko had training doubles.
Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (April 25) with a post time of 5:05 p.m. (EDT).
For more information go to www.vernondowns.com.