Vernon, NY — Capt Jack Hanover and trainer/driver John MacDonald captured the featured $7,500 pace at Vernon Downs on Saturday (Aug. 9).
Major Leaguer (Jimmy Whittemore) was first to the quarter in :26.2. Capt Jack Hanover ($9.80) took a short lead heading around the first turn, then Bettors Donttell (Brad Irvine) took control and led to the half in :55.1. Prospectors Gold (Chris Long) came first-up to challenge going around the final turn. Bettors Donttell was first to three-quarters in 1:24.1.
As they reached the stretch, third-place finisher Bettors Donttell and second-place finisher Prospectors Gold continued to battle. Capt Jack Hanover then found an opening on the inside in deep stretch and slipped through to win in 1:52.1.
Capt Jack Hanover is a 7-year-old gelding by Captaintrecherous. He is owned by Micheal Kessler, Speed To Burn Racing, and trainer MacDonald. It was his 12th win this season. He now has 35 career victories.
John MacDonald had a training and driving double. Chris Long had a driving double.
Live racing returns to Vernon Downs on Friday (Aug. 15) with a post time of 5:05 p.m.
For more information, go to www.vernondowns.com.