Le Massif ($16.40) and driver Steeven Genois took the feature pace on the 2023 closing night on Saturday, Nov. 18 at Vernon Downs.
Jericho Willie (Tom Merton) led to the quarter in :27 and used a :30 second quarter to be the first to the half in :57. He cruised to the three-quarters in 1:26.1. As they made the turn for home, Le Massif made his move going first-over from third. He blew right on by and took the lead. Manverick (John MacDonald) came flying late, but could only watch as Le Massif won easily in 1:54.3. Kisses From Above (Adam Capizzano) finished third.
Le Massif is a four-year-old horse by Shanghai Phil. Owned by Laurent Pednault in partnership with trainer Melanie Boulianne, he earned his fourth win of the season from 28 starts and his eighth career victory.
John MacDonald won his fifth driving title at Vernon Downs as he was the 2023 dash driving champion with 114 wins. He previously won four straight dash titles from 2016-2019. Barton Dalious was second with 95 wins. Jimmy Whittemore (54), Frank Affrunti (54) and Steeven Genois (51) round out the top five.
Michelle Warner won her first training title with 50 wins. David Dewhurst was second with 41 trips to the winner’s circle. Jeff Sorenson (32), Claude Huckabone III (30) and Gary Gibson (28) round out the top five.
Unusual Clarity was recognized as Vernon's 2023 Pacer of the Year. The eight-year-old mare by Betterthancheddar has had a season to remember. She had eight wins, six seconds and four thirds in 23 starts this season at Vernon. She is owned by Nicholas Gibides, while trained and driven by Ron Harp.
Vernon's 2023 Trotter of the Year was named Lepanto. The five-year-old gelding by Bar Hopping had seven wins, nine seconds and three thirds in just 25 starts at Vernon. He is owned by the Betcha Win Stable and trained by Jeff Sorenson.
Vernon Downs would like to thank all its employees, horsepeople and fans for a great 70th anniversary season. Vernon Downs will resume live racing in April 2024.
(With files from Vernon Downs)