Vernon, NY — Bourbon Express (Frank Affrunti) won the $8,700 Open 2 Trot at Vernon Downs on Friday (Oct. 7).

Bourbon Express dug in and won in 1:54.3. Fotowon photo.

Bourbon Express ($10.00) went straight to the front and led to the first quarter in :28.1. He used a :29.3 second quarter to be first to the half in :57.4. First to make a move was E Street (Todd Cummings) heading to the final turn but he couldn’t get close as Bourbon Express was first to three-quarters in 1:25.4.

As they reached the stretch Bourbon Express had to brace for the late charging Zapaca (John MacDonald). Bourbon Express dug in and won in 1:54.3. Zapaca had to settle for second. E Street finished third.

Bourbon Express is a 5-year-old gelding by RC Royalty. He is owned by Sal Vullo, James De Armond and trainer Jessica Okusko. It was his third win this season. He now owns 17 career victories.

Affrunti had three driving wins and Misty Carey had three training wins on the night. They combined for a win with Tempster Hanover ($20.20). Affrunti got his other win with Sunrise Winner ($8.70). Carey got her other wins with Havana Ooh Nana ($4.80) and Cloudbreak ($4.40).

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (Oct. 8) with a nine-race card starting at 6:05 p.m. For more information go to www.vernondowns.com.