Vernon, NY – Gold Star Sven (Steeven Genois) was the winner of the $8,500 featured pace on closing night of the 2025 season at Vernon Downs on Saturday (Nov. 15).
Bluesville (Ron Harp) led to the quarter in :28 and was first to the half in :58.1. Aces Or Bettor (Leon Bailey) came first-up to challenge for the lead, but Bluesville shook him off and led to three quarters in 1:26.2.
As they reached the stretch, Gold Star Sven ($11.32) made his move going stride for stride with second-place finisher Bluesville. Gold Star Sven used a late burst to win in 1:54.1. Aces Or Bettor finished third.
Gold Star Sven is a 6-year-old gelding by Hypnotic Blue Chip. He is owned by Kathryn Rea and trained by John Stubits. It was his sixth win this season. He now has 17 lifetime victories.
Leon Bailey captured the top drivers’ title with 112 wins. Chris Long finished second. He had a grand slam on the card and finished with 110 tallies. Jimmy Whittemore (61), John MacDonald (60), and Dylan Huckabone-Miller (57) round out the top five.
Michelle Warner won the top trainer title with 41 wins. David Dewhurst (39) finished second. Gary Gibson (38), Joe Sansone (33), and Jessica Okusko (31) round out the top five.
Forty G’s is the Trotter of the Year. In 10 starts he had 7 wins and two seconds. Forty G’s is a 4-year-old horse by Muscle Hill. He is owned by Mitchell Frair, Donna Duer, and trainer Roman Lopez.
Vernon Downs returns to live racing April 2026. Thank you to all the fans, horse people, and employees.
For more information go to www.vernondowns.com.