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 six-year-old Jeremes 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 Kylers 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 two-year-old trotting colts and geldings. Post time is 6:45 p.m. Eastern.
(Vernon Downs)