Vernon Downs' leading driver John MacDonald swept the features on Saturday, Nov. 11 thanks to David Dewhurst trainees Dewey Arnold and Primo Uomo.
Dewey Arnold ($2.80, pictured above) cruised to easy win in the $9,000 Open Trot. The favourite went straight to the front and led to the quarter in :26.3. He slowed things down and used a pair of :29 quarters to hit three-quarters in 1:24.3. As they reached the stretch, Dewey Arnold just took off. Second-place finisher Golden Kronos gave late chase but could only watch as Dewey Arnold won in 1:53.3. Sevenshotsobourbon (Tom Merton) finished third.
Dewey Arnold is a five-year-old gelding by Deweycheatumnhowe. He is owned by Dewhurst and Phillip Hale. It was his sixth win this season and he now owns 31 career victories.
Primo Uomo ($8.20) captured the $9,000 Open Pace. Bluesville (Tom Merton) darted straight to the front before Primo Uomo approached first-over and got by just before hitting the quarter first in :26.4. He was first to the half in :56, then JMs Delight (Greg Merton) went first-up to challenge going around the final turn. Primo Uomo was first to three-quarters in 1:24.2. As they made the turn for home, Primo Uomo had plenty in the tank and won in 1:52.1. JMs Delight had to settle for second money. Buzzer (Artie Dick) finished third.
Primo Uomo is a three-year-old gelding by Heston Blue Chip. He is trained by Dewhurst for owners Chris and Dale Lawton. It was his 15th win this season and his the 16th win of his career.
MacDonald connected for a grand slam on the night, also winning with Buzz and Certified Agent.
Vernon Downs will close out the 2023 live racing season on Friday, Nov. 17 and Saturday, Nov. 18. Post time for both nights is 6:05 p.m.
(Vernon Downs)