The swift-striding JK Panache produced his third sub-1:50 mile of the 33-program meeting at Vernon Downs with Saturday night’s 1:49.3 Open Pace triumph.
JK Panache, who lowered the track’s record for four-year-old pacing geldings to 1:49.1 on June 22 and also posted a local victory in 1:49.3 on June 9, raced like he was the best, and proved it with a front-ending 1:49.3 triumph in Saturday’s $10,000 ninth race.
Saturday’s two-length tally over the wagering favourite, Northern Companion, resulted in the fifth current win and 13th lifetime tally for the bay son of Art Major. Jimmy Whittemore did the teaming for trainer Dave Dewhurst, who owns the career-winner of $135,486 along with Philip K. Hale.
Former Vernon driving champ Whittemore went on to capture Saturday’s final race with Majestic Splash and record his fifth double of the track’s 60th season.
Current top reinsman Rick Plano picked up three first-place finishes during the 12-race card, while drivers Roman Lopez and Brian Connor each earned two trips to Vernon’s winner’s circle.
(Vernon Downs)