Vernon, NY — Birdman (Barton Dalious) won the featured $8,700 Open 2 Trot at Vernon Downs on Friday (Sept. 16).

Birdman opened his wings and won easily in 1:54.4. Fotowon photo.

Birdman ($5.80) went straight to the front and led to the first quarter in :27.2.  He used a :29.4 second quarter to lead to the half in :57.1.  Cash N Chrome (Truman Gale) came first-up to challenge as they went around the final turn. Birdman was still in charge and was first to three-quarters in 1:26,4.

As they reached the stretch Birdman opened his wings and won easily in 1:54.4. Lepanto (Jeff Sorenson) came up to finish second. E Street (Todd Cummings) collected third place money.

Birdman is a 4-year-old gelding by Swan For All. He is owned by Joseph Ciuffetelli and trained by Tony Ciuffetelli. It was his eighth win this season and he now owns nine career victories.

Driver Frank Affrunti and trainer George Ducharme combined for three wins on the card. Their wins came with Walter’s Keepsake ($4.60), Rooster Bennett ($2.60), and Isaac ($4.80).

Leon Bailey drove three winners on the night. He got wins with Wyoming Cowboy ($2.70), Starlitsimple Rig ($3.10), and Relentless Dancer ($12.00).

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (Sept. 17) with an eight-race card starting at 6:05 p.m. For more information go to www.vernondowns.com.