Sustaining a first-over bid through the far turn, Card Knock Life ($9.50) was able to just prevail over even-money favourite Big City Jewel in Sunday (August 9) afternoon's $8000 Open II Pace at Vernon Downs.
Trainer/driver Truman Gale settled in mid-field with the five-year-old Western Ideal gelding, drafting well behind a :54.4 half set by Big City Jewel (Chris Lems) before commencing his bid on the far turn. Card Knock Life forced a :27.4 third quarter, but was momentarily rebuffed in upper stretch by Big City Jewel. After duelling through mid-stretch, Card Knock Life was able to just wear down his main adversary, prevailing by a half-length in 1:51. Wild Shot Hanover (Fern Paquet Jr.) rallied stoutly to save third after he was shuffled to last on the far turn.
Donn Lewandrowski and Gail Farrell own Card Knock Life.
Chris Lems led all drivers, tallying three wins on the nine-race card.
(Vernon Downs)