It took Blueridge Betty a while to get geared up, but she eventually was able to rally for a 1:54.2 victory in Friday night’s $10,000 featured ninth race at Vernon Downs

Facing five female foes on a deteriorating track due to a heavy thunder shower, Blueridge Betty ($17.00) laid back in last place for three-quarters of the week’s distaff Open, then powered up around the final bend and streaked through the final sixteenth to nip another closer, Hugs Again, by a nose at the conclusion of the mile contest.

The win over a track labeled “good” was the second in a row, third at the 16-night meeting and tenth all-time for the hard-hitting five-year-old mare, who is owned by the Big Sky Ranch. Trainer Joe Nassimos did the teaming as the bay daughter of Modern Art-Miss Megan E raised her career earnings to nearly $79,000.

Newcomer Frank Milby secured a triple following first-place finishes behind the pacers My Girl Lora, Miracle Lu Lu and Mach Hula, while drivers Roman Lopez, Leon Bailey, and trainers Lopez, Deedra Johnson and Dave Dewhurst were all credited with two-win outings during the 12-race program.

(Vernon Downs)