Vernon, NY – Syracuse Express (John MacDonald) nips big favorite Tomas (Artie Dick) to capture the $8,500 Open Pace at Vernon Downs on Monday (Sept. 4).

Syracuse Express ($14.40) charged right out of the gate and went straight to the front. He was first to the quarter in :26.4. He used a :28.3 second quarter to be first to the half in :55.2. He started to open up the lead as they went around the final turn getting to three-quarters first in 1:22.3.

Syracuse Express posted a lifetime best of 1:51.1 while winning the Open Pace on Monday at Vernon Downs. Fotowon photo.

As they made the turn for home Syracuse Express played catch me if you can. Tomas then made his move going all out after the lead. Syracuse Express dug in as Tomas kept coming. Syracuse Express got to the finish line first in a lifetime best of 1:51.1. Tomas had to settle for second money. Avion Seelster (Billy Dobson) finished third.

Syracuse Express is a 4-year-old horse by American Ideal. He is owned by James DeArmond, Sal Vullo, and trainer Jessica Okusko. It was his fifth win this season and his 11th career victory.

John MacDonald and Steevein Genois each had driving triples. Michelle Warner had a training double.

Live racing returns on Friday (Sept. 8) at 6:05 p.m.

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