by James Witherite, Vernon Downs racing media
A Penny Earned decisive at odds-on
Vernon, N.Y. -- A Penny Earned ($3.00) lived up to odds-on
billing in the featured trotting event Vernon Downs on Friday (May 13) night,
posting a 1:54.2 mile to claim the winner's share of a $7,500 purse.
Chris Lems sent the 7-year-old Conway Hall gelding to the
front from the outset, working clear of My Lucky Word (John MacDonald) through
a :27.3 first quarter mile. After rating a :29.2 breather in the second quarter
and dismissing of My Lucky Word, A Penny Earned was forced to accelerate by the
first-over Winding Hill (Jimmy Whittemore), who pressed to within
three-quarters of a length on approach to the far turn. A Penny Earned
responded immediately to the challenge, ultimately edging clear to a two-length
triumph, the 28th of his career. Winding Hill sustained his pursuit in second,
while My Lucky Word was nine lengths detached in third.
Trainer George Ducharme co-owns A Penny Earned with Alfred
Ross, Paul Fontaine, and Nicola Oliva.
John MacDonald led all drivers with three wins on the
nine-race card, while Lems recorded a double.
The 50¢ Pick 5 once again went uncovered, resulting in a
carryover of $1,101 to Saturday (May 14) evening's program. First post is
slated for 6:45 p.m. EDT.
