Justin Huckabone is having a year to remember at Vernon Downs. He continued to dominate in 2022 with five more driving wins on Saturday (June 11).
Huckabone combined with trainer Misty Carey for wins with Tempster Hanover ($4.10), and Jericho Willie ($2.80). He was driver-trainer for Ruthless Dude ($3.80). He got his other wins with Kisses From Above ($3), and Jenny Lake ($4.80).
Golden Gun held tough to capture the featured $7,700 Open Pace.
Golden Gun went to the front and led to the first quarter in :26.1. Lyons Pegasus came flying first over and challenged Golden Gun up the backstretch. Golden Gun had a slight lead to the half in :56. The two continued to go shoulder to shoulder around the final turn. Golden Gun was first to three-quarters in 1:23.2.
As they reached the stretch, Golden Gun look like he was clear but second place finisher, Lyons Pegasus charged at him one more time. Golden Gun held to win in a seasonal best of 1:52.3. Gold Star Lambeau came up late to finish third.
Golden Gun is a 12-year-old gelding by Headmaster. He is owned by the Wiz Kids Stable and trained by Jeff Sorenson. It was his second win this season. He now has 45 victories. Barton Dalious drove the $8.70 winner.
Live racing returns to Vernon Downs on Friday (June 17) featuring the Empire Breeders Classic for three-year-old trotters as well as the New York Sire Stakes for three-year-old pacing fillies. Post time is 12:15 p.m. (EDT).
(Vernon Downs)