First Call (Homer Hochstetler) wins the ($7,000) featured trot at Vernon Downs on Friday (August 23).
Only Passing Thru (Jimmy Whittemore) grabbed the early lead. First Call ($5.10) took over the lead just before hitting the first quarter in 28.2. Only Passing Thru had to settle for the pocket trip and watched as First Call went to the half first in :58.2. First Call continued to lead hitting three-quarters in 1:27.1. Only Passing Thru popped out the pocket as they made the turn for home. The two trotters slugged it out all the way down the stretch.
First Call, who is trained by Homer Hochstetler for owners Robert Buddig, Allen Schwartz, and Connie Hochstetler, dug in and would not be denied winning in 1:55.2. Only Passing Thru had to settle for second. American JJ (Michael Miller) finished third.
First Call is a 4-year-old mare by Credit Winner. It was her third win this season. She now has won 13 times in her career.
Jimmy Whittemore drove three winners on the night. He got his wins with Gracie G ($35.60), Bold Fresh ($9.40), and Southwind Vixen ($10.00). Gates Brunet was driver-trainer for two wins. He got his wins with Meghan C ($12.60), and Michelle Christine ($2.50). Ben McNeil drove two winners on the night. He came in first with Jersey Boy ($8.90), and Gimmesomeroom ($3.70).
Vernon Downs returns to Live racing on Saturday (August 24) with a 13 race card starting at 6:10 p.m.
For more information go to www.vernondowns.com
