Vernon, NY — Valottalove and John MacDonald captured the $7,500 featured trot at Vernon Downs on Thursday (July 11).

Zapaca (Steeven Genois) grabbed the early lead, but Valottalove ($3.90) went on by to lead to the quarter in :27.1. He slowed things down and used a :30.2 second quarter to be first to the half in :57.3. He maintained the lead to three-quarters in 1:26.1. As they reached the stretch, Zapaca pulled out of the pocket and went all-out after the leader. Valottalove was just too strong and won in 1:55.2. Zapaca had to settle for second money. Conquest As (Chris Long) finished third.

Valottalove held his ground for a 1:55.2 win in the featured trot Thursday at Vernon Downs. Fotowon photo.

Valottalove is a 5-year-old gelding by Love You. He is owned by JP Stables and trained by MacDonald. It was his fifth win this season. He now has 14 career victories.

Drivers Leon Bailey and MacDonald won nine of the 12 races on Thursday night. Bailey drove five winners on the card. He got wins with Nicholas Blue Chip, Fear The Virgin, Lady To Watch, Courtly Prince and Joyful Lady. MacDonald steered four horses to the winner’s circle. His other three wins came with The Hunt Is On, Tullow N and Maching Me Zilly.

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (July 13) at 6:05 p.m. There is no live racing on Friday (July 12) because the band Night Ranger will be performing at the track. Concert time is 8 p.m. For more information, go to www.vernondowns.com.