Discus Hanover and driver Leon Bailey captured the $8,500 Open Trot at Vernon Downs on Saturday (Oct. 23).
Match My Miracle took the early lead but Discus Hanover took over the lead just before hitting the first quarter in :26.3. He used a :29.4 second quarter to get to the half first in :56.2. Spoiler Alert was the first to make a move and the two trotters were side by side going around the final turn. Discus Hanover was first to three-quarters in 1:25.
As they made the turn for home, Discus Hanover shook free and won easily in 1:54.2. Double Dealing came charging late to finish second. Hot Foot Hannah was third.
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Discus Hanover is a four-year-old gelding by Credit Winner. He is owned by Phillip Hale and trainer David Dewhurst. It was his 10th win of the season. He now has 26 career victories. He paid $7.10 to win.
With just four more live racing cards left in 2021, Leon Bailey leads all drivers with 120 wins. Justin Huckabone is second on the list with 86 victories. Jimmy Whittemore is third with 53 trips to the winner’s circle. Chris Long (39) and Frank Affrunti (23) round out the top five.
Jeff Sorenson leads all trainers with 34 wins. Justin Huckabone has 30 victories for second best. Jessica Okusko and Kerin Warner are tied for third with 26 wins. Marissa Chadbourne is fifth best with 22 tallies..
Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Friday (Oct. 29) at 6:10 p.m. (EDT).
(Vernon Downs)