Vernon, NY — Jericho Willie (Frank Affrunti) won the $7,500 featured pace on Saturday (June 10) at Vernon Downs.

Jericho Willie used one late surge to win in 1:53.2. Fotowon photo.

Stewardoftheland (Claude Huckabone Jr.) went straight to the lead and led to the quarter in :27.4. He used a :29.1 second quarter to be first to the half in :57. He was still on the point to three-quarters in 1:26.

As they made the turn for home Jericho Willie ($7.70) popped out of the pocket and challenged for the lead. Stewardoftheland and Jericho Willie were shoulder to shoulder all the way down the stretch. Jericho Willie used one late surge to win in 1:53.2. Stewardoftheland had to settle for second. Ocean Blue (Steeven Genois) finished third.

Jericho Willie is a 7-year-old gelding by Rock N Roll Heaven. He is trained by Misty Carey for owners Michael Kessler and Speed To Burn Racing Stable. It was his third win of the season and the 27th victory of his career.

Affrunti drove a natural hat trick to end the evening. Steeven Genois had a driving double. Michelle Warner had a training double.

Vernon Downs returns to live racing Friday featuring the Empire Breeders Classic (EBC) for 3-year-old trotters. Special post time is 12:15 p.m. For more information, go to www.vernondowns.com.