by Jim Moran, Publicity Dept., Vernon Downs

VERNON, NY — The swift-footed pacer Smoky Bonz extended his tender winning streak to two with a 1:53.1 victory in the $8,000 featured ninth race at Vernon Downs on Saturday night (Nov. 4).

Owned by the Purple Haze Stable, LLC and George Wyman, the favored Smoky Bonz traveled on the outside from last at the quarter, advancing from fifth at the half to second at the third station. With trainer Howard Okusko, Jr. doing the teaming, the gritty 4-year-old gelding overtook the pace-setting Life Sizzles in the stretch and drew off for a 1-3/4 length decision over the closing How Forever Feels in the week’s Open Handicap. Life Sizzles held on for third.

The win was the fourth at the Downs this season and ninth overall in 2006 for the brown son of Kassa Branca. The $56,500 he’s earned in 24 season’s starts has raised his career winnings to more than $124,000.

DOWNS DOINGS — seven of Saturday’s 11 races were dedicated to the Make A Wish Foundation…Vernon will present three more weekends of live Friday and Saturday night harness racing through November 25. First post each evening is at 6:50…The Downs offers daily afternoon and evening simulcasts starting at 11 a.m.