After rising steadily through the ranks amid three wins in as many starts, the J P Stables' Damon Blue Chip ($5.90) extended his streak to four in Saturday (May 14) night's $7,500 top-level pace at Vernon Downs.
Trainer/driver John MacDonald sent the seven-year-old Rocknroll Hanover gelding to the front, but had to work clear of Pantehon Hanover (Chris Lems) through a :26.4 first quarter. Once clear, Damon Blue Chip maintained a blistering pace over off going, reeling off middle fractions of :54.3 and 1:22.4 before gaining some separation in upper stretch. The now 31-time winner ultimately drew off from Pantheon Hanover by 2-1/4 lengths for a 1:52.1 score, while The Green Knight (Truman Gale) was a farther 10-1/4 lengths back in third after a mild rally out of last on the far turn.
Jimmy Whittemore led all drivers with three wins on the nine-race card, teaming up with Mowersbigmike ($14.00, 1:56.1), Veal Marsala ($5.50, 1:55.1), and Western Toro ($9.70, 1:56.4).
The 50-cent Pick 5 once again evaded the Vernon punters, leading to a $1,626.50 carryover to Thursday (May 19) evening. A 10-race program is due to commence at 6:45 p.m. EDT.
(Vernon Downs)