Bourbon Express ($10) and driver Frank Affrunti won the $8,700 Open 2 Trot at Vernon Downs on Friday (Oct. 7).
Bourbon Express went straight to the front and led the field to the quarter in :28.1 and half in :57.4. E Street (Todd Cummings) was first to make a move heading to the final turn but he couldn’t get close as Bourbon Express hit three-quarters in 1:25.4. As they reached the stretch, Bourbon Express had to brace for the late-charging Zapaca (John MacDonald) and he dug in to win in 1:54.3. Zapaca settled for second and E Street finished third.
Bourbon Express is a five-year-old gelding by RC Royalty. He is owned by Sal Vullo, James De Armond and trainer Jessica Okusko. Bourbon Express earned his third win of the season from 17 starts and his 17th victory lifetime.
Affrunti had three driving wins and Misty Carey had three training wins on the night. They combined for a win with Tempster Hanover ($20.20). Affrunti also won with Sunrise Winner ($8.70) while Carey earned her other victories with Havana Ooh Nanna ($4.80) and Cloudbreak ($4.40).
(With files from Vernon Downs)