by James Witherite, Vernon Downs racing media
Southwind Trini kicks cover to prevail in top Vernon
distaff
Vernon, N.Y. -- Benefitting from wicked early fractions and
a cozy second-over trip, Southwind Trini ($6.00) made good as the slim 2-1
favorite in Friday (July 10) evening's $10,000 Mares Open Pace at Vernon Downs.
Away fourth in the field of five, the 7-year-old Rocknroll
Hanover mare was in no hurry to press Southwind Serenity (Truman Gale) through
a torrid :53.3 initial half mile. On the far turn, Greg Merton angled
Southwind Trini to follow cover provided by The Filly Princess (Frank Davis),
towed right up into second as Southwind Serenity was gathered in by the
steadily-advancing The Filly Princess well past a 1:21.3 three-quarter
sectional. Southwind Trini sustained her bid off cover, putting 1-1/4
lengths on The Filly Princess in the end for a 1:50.2 triumph. Love You
Bye (Jimmy Whittemore) recovered well to take third after she was shuffled to
last on the far turn.
Rob Harmon trains Southwind Trini for Karma Racing, Inc.
Claude Huckabone, III led all drivers with three wins on the
evening.
Live racing returns at Vernon on Saturday (July 11) evening,
with first post at 6:45 p.m. Eastern time. Fans are invited to arrive
early to receive their replica Chris Lems driving colors shirts (while supplies
last), and to meet the defending Miracle Mile driving champion.
