Vernon Downs Track Superintendent Tony Rossi had a look of satisfaction on his face this morning as he watched Diamond Stick Pin and Wake Up Little Gus uncork the fastest pacing and trotting miles, respectfully, of the young

qualifying season at Vernon Downs.

With Howard Okusko, Jr. doing the teaming for his wife, trainer Jessica Okusko, Diamond Stick Pin posted a 1:53.2 triumph in Tuesday’s second race, while Robert Moran, steering for owner and trainer Bette Jean Calice, urged Wake Up Little Gus to a 1:56.4 score in the third race.

“We’ve had good weather of late, and the track has shaped up nicely,” Rossi explained. “We resurfaced it yesterday and, after today’s four races, I’d say we’re good to go for Friday night’s opener.”

Vernon will begin its 57th pari-mutuel season with live racing starting at 6:55 this Friday and Saturday night. The track’s 90-card campaign will extend through November 27.

(Vernon Downs)