Brookdale Bruiser, in rein to teamster John MacDonald, was a front-stepping winner in the $7,000 featured pace Saturday at Vernon Downs.

Brookdale Bruiser ($6.70) went to the front and hit the first quarter in :26.1. He slowed down the second quarter hitting the half in :56.1. The gelding led to three-quarters in 1:25.2. Sometimes Said (Leon Bailey) followed all the way to three-quarters. He came out of the pocket and went after Brookdale Bruiser.

Brookdale Bruiser, who is owned by the J P Stables and trained by MacDonald, had plenty left in the tank as they made the turn for home. He would win easily in 1:52.3. Sometimes Said had to settle for second. Golden Brit (Howard Parker) would receive third money.

Brookdale Bruiser is a five-year-old gelding by Roll With Joe. It was his 11th win this season. He now owns 19 career victories.

Jimmy Whittemore drove four winners on the evening. He got his wins with Nanuet ($18.80), Grave Dancer ($13.00), The Royal Garden N ($23.80) and American Sweet Pea ($6.10). John MacDonald drove three winners. He got his other victories with Lady Rapidash ($16.00) and Fridaynightflight ($12.60).

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Friday, Oct. 25 starting at 6:10 p.m.

(Vernon Downs)