by James Witherite, Vernon Downs racing media
Express Jet resurgent in feature; MacDonald wins five
Vernon, N.Y. -- Briefly headed by odds-on favourite Asset
Management in mid-stretch, Express Jet ($6.50) battled back in the final yards
to just prevail in Wednesday (September 16) evening's featured $7,000 top-level
distaff pace at Vernon Downs.
The 6-year-old Jereme's Jet mare controlled the terms from
the outset, uncontested through the first six furlongs in 1:27.1 before facing
a challenge from the first-over Asset Management (Dan Daley). In upper
stretch, Express Jet briefly was headed, but she fought back gamely to not only
reclaim the lead, but to also stave off pocket rival Love You Bye (Jimmy
Whittemore), who chased valiantly in third once availed room, missing by just a
half length.
Trainer John MacDonald was in the bike behind Express Jet, a
1:54.4 winner over good going.
MacDonald earned four other driving wins on the evening's
10-race program, teaming up with Kyler's Valentine ($6.50, 1:54.2), The African
($4.40, 1:59.1), I Saw Red ($3.60, 1:54.4), and Winbak Heavenly ($2.40,
1:52.1).
Live racing returns to Vernon Downs with a 14-race program
on Friday (September 18) evening, featuring New York Sire Stakes events for
2-year-old trotting colts and geldings. Post time is 6:45 p.m. Eastern.
