Perched perfectly from second-over on the far turn, Pocono invader Shutthefrontdoor ($4.70) vaulted clear in mid-stretch to take Friday (May 6) night's $8,000 Mares Open Pace at Vernon Downs.
The five-year-old Well Said mare settled well off the pace from the outset, allowing Looney Dune (Billy Davis Jr.) to establish solid early sectionals of :26.4 and :55.3 before working closer through the far turn. Shutthefrontdoor ended up second-over through a 1:24.2 three-quarters split when Little Santamonica (Frank Davis) vacated the pocket to head Looney Dune off the corner. Despite striking the front strongly at head-stretch, Little Santamonica ultimately gave way to Shutthefrontdoor, who drew off by two and a half lengths in 1:51.3 over 'good' going. Little Santamonica was a clear second, two and a half lengths in advance of third-place finisher Keene Olivia (Chris Lems).
Trainer Mike Sinclair co-owns Shutthefrontdoor with Guy Beaulieu and Richard Villeneuve.
Chris Lems led all drivers with four wins on the night, teaming up with Grizzly Mama ($2.40, 1:57), Wings Of Royalty ($3.70, 1:55), Hello Im Johnny ($5.90, 1:58.2), and Gelato Man ($16.80, 1:57.2) Lems's 11 wins on the young season bring him to within one win of leading driver John MacDonald, who was blanked on the 10-race card.
Live racing returns with a nine-race program on Saturday (May 7). Kentucky Derby festivities abound at the Miracle Mile, including a hat contest, mint juleps, and a $1,000 Derby Dream Bet to one lucky fan. First post is scheduled for 5:10 p.m. EDT.
(Vernon Downs)