by James Witherite, Vernon Downs racing media

Vernon, NY — Over sloppy going and amid windy conditions, the California-bred Little Santamonica ($9.40) parried a stiff first-over challenge from Pancakes (Jimmy Whittemore) en route to a 1:54.3 victory in Wednesday (Oct. 28) evening’s featured $7,000 top-level conditioned pace for mares at Vernon Downs.

Frank Davis sent the 7-year-old Little Steven mare right to the front from the extreme outside, crossing and clearing all six rivals through a :27.1 initial quarter. On the backstretch, Little Santamonica slowed the pace a bit, but was joined by fourth choice Pancakes near the completion of a :56.4 half. The two dueled for the entirety of a :28.4 third sectional, but Little Santamonica maintained the upper hand, edging clear off the corner. Pocket rival and lukewarm favorite Looney Dune (Ben McNeil) chased stoutly to hold second as Pancakes faded through the stretch, but she could only close to within 1-1/4 lengths of Little Santamonica.

Owner Jordan Hope also handles the training duties of Little Santamonica.

Leading driver John MacDonald kept his spot atop the standings intact with four wins on the evening’s 10-race card, prevailing with Peanutbutternhoney ($34.60, 1:57), Northern Beauty ($2.30, 1:55), E R Rhonda ($2.40, 1:55.2), and Socks And Shuzy ($6.20, 1:57.1).

Live racing returns to Vernon Downs on Friday (Oct. 30) evening, with the first of 10 races due off at 6:45 p.m. (EDT).