Vernon, NY — Prairie Panther (John MacDonald) captured the $7,500 featured pace on Saturday (April 20) at Vernon Downs.

Prairie Panther blew right on by to win in 1:54. Fotowon photo.

Around Midnight (Barton Dalious) went to the front and led to the quarter in :27. Prairie Panther ($6.10) came first-up and challenged Around Midnight for the lead at the half in :57. The two continued to duke it out all the way around the final turn. Around Midnight was first to three-quarters in 1:24.4.

As they made the turn for home Around Midnight appeared to shake off Prairie Panther but Prairie Panther wasn’t done and blew right on by to win in 1:54. Old Pal (Truman Gale) came flying late but had to settle for second money. Bluesville (Frank Affrunti) finished third. Around Midnight faded to sixth.

Prairie Panther is a 10-year-old gelding by Royel Millennium. He is owned by Joel Warner and trainer Mike Deters. It was his first win this season. He now has 73 career wins.

MacDonald and Frank Affrunti had driving triples. George Ducharme had a training double.

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (April 27) at 6:05 p.m. For more information, go to www.vernondowns.com.