Zapaca and driver Steeven Genois captured the $11,486 featured Open Trot at Vernon Downs on Saturday, Aug. 24.

Wallet and Claude Huckabone III were first to the quarter in :26.2, slowing things down with a :30.4 second quarter and front the field to the half in :57.1.  Woodside Gabe (Leon Bailey) came flying down the backstretch and took over the lead to hit three-quarters in 1:25.2 but then he went on break.

As they reached the stretch Zapaca ($10.60) took command and cruised home to win in 1:55.3.  Discus Hanover (Ron Harp) came on late to finish second. Sir Jesse (Jimmy Whittemore) was third best.

Zapaca is a seven-year-old gelding by Yankee Glide, trained by Gary Gibson for owner Devan Flood of New York. The trotter notched his sixth win this season, and first at the Vernon top class.  He now owns 17 career victories with $90,041 in earnings.

Maximum Ideal (Chuck Connor Jr.) came flying late to capture the George Tackley Memorial Race for owner and trainer Margarer Spagnola The winner’s circle was packed with family and friends showing their love for the late George Tackley, who passed away in late July. 

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Friday, Aug. 30, with first post time of 4 p.m.

(with files from Vernon)