Vernon, NY – Driver John MacDonald has been on a tear the last two weeks at Vernon Downs. On Friday (Aug. 11) he drove six winners including the $8,500 Open Pace with Syracuse Express ($5.80).

Lou Ed Zeppelin (Tom Merton) led to the quarter in :28.2. He used a :29.0 second quarter to be first to the half in :57.2. Syracuse Express made his move going first-up around the final turn. Lou Ed Zeppelin had a short lead to three-quarters in 1:26.0.

Syracuse Express was one of six winners that John MacDonald piloted to victory on Friday at Vernon Downs. Fotowon photo.

As they reached the stretch Syracuse Express used a burst of speed to take the lead and make it a race for second as he won in 1:52.4. Major Leaguer (Jimmy Whittemore) came on to finish second. Lou Ed Zeppelin had to settle for third.

Syracuse Express is a 4-year-old horse by American Ideal. He is owned by James DeArmond, Sal Vullo, and trainer Jessica Okusko. It was his fourth win this season and his 10th career victory.

MacDonald got his other wins with Somelucksomerock, Ashlee’s Supreme, Grateful Express, Sugaree Express, and Nanuet.

Live racing returns to Vernon Downs on Saturday (Aug. 12) with a 15-race card featuring NYSS freshmen pacers starting at 6:05 p.m.

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