Vernon, NY – Syracuse Express and driver Chris Long won the $7,500 featured pace at Vernon Downs on Saturday (July 19).
Syracuse Express ($4.70) went to the front and led to the quarter in :26.2. He used a :29 second quarter to glide to the half in :55.2. It remained a tight pack as they raced to the far turn. War Of Will (John MacDonald) was first to make a move as they headed around the final turn. Syracuse Express was first to three-quarters in 1:23.3.
As they reached the stretch Syracuse Express let it out a notch and made it a race for second as he won easily in 1:51.4. Major Leaguer (Jimmy Whittemore) won the photo for second. Mister Miami (Brad Irvine) finished third.
Syracuse Express is a 6-year-old horse by American Ideal. He is owned by James DeArmond, Sal Vullo and trainer Jessica Okusko. It was his third win of the season. He now has 17 career victories.
Long had a driving hat trick on the night.
Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Thursday (July 24) with a post time of 5:05 p.m. (EDT).
For more information go to www.vernondowns.com.