Vernon, NY — Le Massif (Steeven Genois) grabbed the feature pace on 2023 closing night, Saturday (Nov. 18), at Vernon Downs.

Le Massif won easily in 1:54.3. Fotowon photo.

Jericho Willie (Tom Merton) led to the quarter in :27. He used a :30 second quarter to be first to the half in :57. He would cruise to three-quarters in 1:26.1.

As they made the turn for home, Le Massif ($16.40) made his move, going first over from third. He would blow right on by and take the lead. Manverick (John MacDonald) came flying late but could only watch as Le Massif won easily in 1:54.3. Kisses From Above (Adam Capizzano) finished third.

Le Massif is a 4-year-old horse by Shanghai Phil. He is owned by Laurent Pednault and trainer Melanie Boulianne. It was his fourth win of the season. He now has eight career victories.

Greg Merton had a driving grand slam. He got his wins with Major Authority, Buzz, Pet Sur-Roc, and Kicks Lika Mule.

John MacDonald won his fifth drivers title at Vernon. J-Mac is the driving dash champion with 114 wins. He previously won four straight dash titles from 2016-2019. Barton Dalious was second with 95 wins. Jimmy Whittemore (54), Frank Affrunti (54), and Steeven Genois (51) rounded out the top five.

Michelle Warner won her first training title with 50 wins. David Dewhurst was second with 41 trips to the winner’s circle. Jeff Sorenson (32), Claude Huckabone III (30), and Gary Gibson (28) rounded out the top five.

The 2023 pacer of the year is Unusual Clarity. The 8-year-old mare by Betterthancheddar has had a season to remember. She had eight wins, six seconds and four thirds in 23 starts this season at Vernon. She is owned by Nicholas Gibides while trained and driven by Ron Harp.

The 2023 trotter of the year is Lepanto. The 5-year-old gelding by Bar Hopping had seven wins, nine seconds and three thirds in just 25 starts at Vernon. He is owned by the Betcha Win Stable and trained by Jeff Sorenson.

Vernon Downs would like to thank all the employees, horse people, and all of the fans for a great 70th anniversary season. Vernon Downs will return to live racing in April 2024.

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