Harness driver Claude Huckabone Jr captured his 2000th career victory winning the featured trot ($9,000) with Barn Bella at Vernon Downs on Friday (June 29).
Barn Bella ($3.40) went straight to the front and controlled all the fractions (:26.4, :54.4, 1:23.1, 1:52.0). Owned by Purple Haze Stables with Nancy and trainer Steven Pratt. Barn Bella was beaten in the stretch last week but this week she had plenty in the tank winning by six lengths. Buff (Joe Nasimos) finished second with Muscles Jared (Howard Okusko Jr.) getting third money.
Barn Bella is a 4-year-old mare by Conway Hall. It was her first win of 2018 and career victory number 19.
Claude Huckabone Jr. is a long time regular at Vernon Downs. It was fitting he got his 2000th win at the Miracle Mile on the last race of the evening.
Lew's Big Guy (Michael Miller) pays $226.50 to win.
Heels On Wheels (Gates Brunet) fired out of the gate and controlled all the early fractions (:29.1, 1:00.0, 1:29.1). Lew's Big Guy was four lengths back after three-quarters. Owned by Judy Harris and trainer Lewis Miller, he blew by in the stretch to win going away in 1:59.1. Finishing second was Elsas Ruby (Truman Gale) with Heels On Wheels holding on for third. The $2.00 exacta paid $2,131.00.
Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (June 30) with a nine race card starting at 6:10.
For more information go to www.vernondowns.com
