After repelling a challenge from odds-on favourite Hot List through the far turn, Lets Go Higher ($5.80) dug in to stave off pocket rival The Filly Princess in Friday (July 17) evening's $10,000 Mares Open Pace at Vernon Downs.

The seven-year-old Cole Muffler mare sprinted out to the lead through a :26.4 first quarter, rating a :30.1 breather on the backstretch before facing stern pressure on the far turn from Hot List (John MacDonald). After she was pushed to a :27.2 third quarter, Lets Go Higher edged clear in upper stretch -- only to face a second threat. The Filly Princess (Frank Davis) found room to challenge from the pocket, but Lets Go Higher maintained a half-length advantage to the winning post, prevailing in 1:52.

Chris Lems drove Lets Go Higher for trainer Heidi Rohr and owner Jesse DeLong.

(Vernon Downs)