VD7/8 - American Jewel, Handsoffmycookie headline NYSS action on Saturday at Vernon

Two of the biggest names in harness racing for 3-year-old filly pacers will headline a star studded roster in the NYSS on Saturday night from Vernon, New York (Post time 6:55 pm). American Jewel and Handsoffmycookie will begin their sophomore seasons coming off of a pair of qualifying events at The Meadowlands.

American Jewel with regular pilot Tim Tetrick will headline the second division (race 6) and has drawn post position number nine going for $34,091. The 3-year-old daughter of American Ideal – Trim Hanover was undefeated through eight starts last year, until she was defeated by Big McDeal in Lexington in early October. American Jewel however came out of that race with an injury that forced her to the sidelines until this year. Jimmy Takter trains American Jewel who sports a career record of eight wins and a second in nine lifetime starts with earnings of more than $677,000.

Handsoffmycookie, who won the NYSS Final last year, and was second in the Breeder’s Crown and Three Diamonds Final will headline the third and final division (Race 8). Tim Tetrick will also be handling the driving duties on the 3-year-old daughter of Art Major – Observe Me for trainer Scott Di Domenico. Handsoffmycookie was never worse than second last year and chalked up a freshman record of nine wins and three second in twelve starts good for $575,000 in earnings. She will leave from post position number three in race number eight on Saturday night.

Vernon Downs kicks off its three consecutive days of live racing on Thursday, May 17 at 6:55 pm, for more information on Vernon Downs please visit us online at www.vernondowns.com .