Vernon, NY — Bourbon Express and driver Frank Affrunti captured the $8,700 featured trot at Vernon Downs on Friday (Nov. 4).

Southwind Falcon (driven by Michael Miller) led to the first quarter in :26.3 before Bourbon Express ($3.80) took control going around the first turn. Sevenshotsobourbon (Jimmy Whittemore) came flying first-over down the backstretch and took the lead to the half in :56.4, but Bourbon Express came back after Sevenshotsobourbon around the final turn and was back in front after three-quarters in 1:25.

In the stretch, Bourbon Express widened his lead to 1-3/4 lengths and won in a seasonal best of 1:53.4. Poker Play (Leon Bailey) came charging late to finish second; Sevenshotsobourbon had to settle for third.

Bourbon Express was a tough two-move winner in Friday’s featured trot at Vernon Downs. Fotowon photo.

Bourbon Express is a 5-year-old gelding by RC Royalty owned by Sal Vullo, James DeArmond and trainer Jessica Okusko. It was his fourth win this season. He now owns 18 career victories.

Leon Bailey drove three winners on the card. Kerin Warner trained three winners on the night. Adam Capizzano had a driving and training double.

Live racing returns to Vernon Downs on Saturday (Nov. 5) with a 10-race card starting at 6:05 p.m.

For more information, go to www.vernondowns.com.