Vernon, NY – Natameri (Jeff Gregory) captures the featured $8,500 Open Pace at Vernon Downs on Friday (May 8).
Merrow (Chris Long) went straight to the front and was first to the quarter in :26.2. Natameri ($3.18) took control heading down the backstretch and led to the half in :55.4. Go With The Flow (Leon Bailey) challenged for the lead all around the final turn. Natameri reached three quarters first in 1:24.3.
As they reached the stretch, Natameri widened his lead. Second place finisher Bluesville (Ron Harp) made a late bid but Natameri was too strong and won in 1:52.0. Merrow finished third.
Natameri is a 6-year-old horse by American Ideal. He is owned by Purple Haze Stables and trained by Jessica Okusko. It was his first win this season. He now has 32 career wins.
Leon Bailey had a driving hat trick. Bryan Quevedo and Jeff Gregory had driving doubles. Brielle Roman and Michelle Warner had training doubles.
Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (May 9) with a post time of 5:05 p.m. For more information go to www.vernondowns.com.