Following a pair of second-place finishes and a third in three prior performances at Vernon Downs this season, Manningly managed to secure his first Open Trot tally in Wednesday night’s feature.
Leaving from post three against five formidable rivals in Wednesday’s $10,500 sixth race, Manningly ($5.90) rallied to the lead from third at the quarter and, once in charge, continued on to a one and three-quarter length tally over newcomer Man About Town.
Chris Lems earned his seventh double at the 37-program meeting as the six-year-old son of Yankee Glide-Balanced Action collected his third season’s score and 16th lifetime victory. Veteran Larry Rathbone conditions the career winner of more than $281,300 for the M&L Of Delaware LLC stable.
Wednesday’s $8,000 ninth race, a Winners Over Trot went to Photosmart in a career-best 1:55.4 performance. Owner-trainer Angus MacDonald drove the six-year-old gelding to his second current win and 15th lifetime triumph.
Driver Rick Plano prevailed in two of Wednesday’s 10 races and increased his meet leading win total to 60. Plano leads in driving doubles at the meet with nine.
(Vernon Downs)