Vernon, NY – Racine Bell (John MacDonald captures the $8,500 featured Fillies & Mares’ Open Pace at Vernon Downs on Friday (May 24).

Racine Bell posted a season-best 1:52.1 in the feature this afternoon at Vernon Downs. Fotowon photo.

Racine Bell ($2.70) took off into a heavy head wind and led to the quarter in :27.4. Fear Her Touch (Leon Bailey) tried to keep up in second. Racine Bell glided to the half in :56.0. She started to take off as they went around the final turn. She was first to three-quarters in 1:22.4.

As they entered the stretch the race was already over. Racine Bell cruised home in a seasonal best of 1:52.1. PL Princess C (Jeff Long) was second. Summer Slash (Ray Fisher Jr.) finished third.

Racine Bell is a 7-year-old mare by So Surreal. She is trained by David Dewhurst for owners Chris and Dale Lawton. It was her second win this season and career victory number 39.

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

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (May 25) at 6:05 p,m.

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