Natameri ($2.70) and driver Frank Affrunti held on to capture the $7,700 Open Pace featured on Friday (July 8) at Vernon Downs.
Natameri blasted off the gate and went straight to the front in a :25.4 first quarter. He slowed things down during the second panel to hit the half in :55.2 then cruised to three-quarters in 1:23.1. As the field made the turn for home, Natameri was still in control as Lyons Pegasus (Justin Huckabone) waited patiently in the pocket. When they reached deep stretch, Lyons Pegasus made his move coming all out after the leader, but Natameri dug in and held on to win narrowly in 1:51. Lyons Pegasus had to settle for second money. Northern Rein (Chris Long) finished third.
Natameri is a four-year-old son of American Ideal owned by the Purple Haze Stables and trained by Jessica Okusko. The win was his third in four starts this season and his ninth career victory.
Barton Dalious has had a terrific first year at Vernon Downs so far this season as he added four more winning drives on Friday. The young phenom combined with trainer Jeff Sorenson to get wins with Treasurethosechips ($5), Won Surreal Deal ($3.30) and Rally Your Crew ($3.20). His fourth straight win came with Ladyyouaregorgeous ($4).
Live racing continues at Vernon Downs on Saturday, featuring the Dr. Harry M. Zweig Memorial races. Post time for 11-race card is 12:15 p.m.
(With files from Vernon Downs)