After working clear early to control the pace, JK Panache ($4.90) held off a stern challenge from Burkentine Hanover to prevail in Sunday (July 12) afternoon's $10,000 Open Pace at Vernon Downs.

Truman Gale sprinted to the fore with the six-year-old Art Major gelding, clearing A Fool For Mark (Dustin Ingraham) through a :26.3 first quarter before rating a :28.4 second-quarter breather. On the far turn, JK Panache sprinted clear through a :27 third quarter, amassing a three-length lead before 4-5 favourite Burkentine Hanover (Fern Paquet Jr.) commenced his rally from the back of the pack. While the pocket-sitting A Fool For Mark struggled to keep up, Burkentine Hanover cut steadily into JK Panache's lead in deep stretch, ultimately missing by just three quarters of a length.

JK Panache, a 1:50.2 winner, is owned by Philip Hale in partnership with trainer Dave Dewhurst.

John MacDonald and Fern Paquet Jr. led all drivers with three wins apiece on the 11-race card, while Williams Hernandez teamed up with trainer Salvador Wenceslao for a pair of victories.

Live racing returns to Vernon Downs on Friday (July 17) evening, with first post slated for 6:45 p.m. Eastern time.

(Vernon Downs)