by James Witherite, Vernon Downs racing media

Vernon, NY — Pushed to the limit–and even headed–through a :26.4 third quarter, Ellen McNeil’s Looney Dune ($3.90) found her best stride in upper stretch, kicking clear for a 1:52 triumph in Wednesday (October 14) evening’s $7,000 featured distaff pace at Vernon Downs.

Ben McNeil sent the 7-year-old Bettor’s Delight mare to the fore with no reservations, clearing Bell On Wheels (Harry Landy) en route to a :28 initial quarter before backing the tempo down on the backstretch. After catching a :29 breather in the second sectional, Looney Dune faced stout pressure from Asset Management (Fern Paquet, Jr.), whose first-over bid momentarily eclipsed Looney Dune through the far turn. Looney Dune, however, worked to hold her ground, and she drew off to defeat pocket rival Bell On Wheels by 4-3/4 lengths as Asset Management faded through the stretch. Kardashian (Truman Gale) benefitted from a ground-saving trip to save third.

John McNeil, III trains Looney Dune.

Live racing returns to Vernon Downs on Friday (October 16) evening, with a quartet of John Simpson Memorial events for 2-year-olds sharing the spotlight on the 12-race program. Post time is 6:45 p.m. EDT.