Scott Woogen's K Js Caroline parried all comers in Thursday night's $11,000 Mares Miracle Mile/Open Handicap Pace at Vernon Downs, and leading driver John MacDonald tallied another five wins on the 10-race program.
K Js Caroline, debuting for trainer Paul Long on arrival from Tioga Downs, made her move to the fore on the clubhouse turn after settling close to a spritely early pace. Roman Lopez brushed the six-year-old Roddys Bags Again mare to the fore to clear Bettorhaveanother (Chris Lems) upon reaching the back of the course, subsequently bracing for heavy pressure from the first-over Yes You Can (Ben McNeil) on the far turn. After enduring a :27.2 third quarter, K Js Caroline edged away, driven out to fend off a late charge from Bettorhaveanother--who found clearance to vacate the pegs in the final eighth--by half a length in 1:51.2. Southern Girl (Fern Paquet, Jr.) mounted a belated rally to take third. The winner paid $6.00 to win.
While a Vernon newcomer took top equine honours for the evening, the "Prime Minister" continued his reign at Vernon Downs with a five-win night. MacDonald paired up with The Filly Princess ($5.80, 1:52.2), I Saw Red ($5.40, 1:53.4), Cheyenne Patti ($9.00, 1:55), E R Rhonda ($3.70, 1:54.2), and Tempus Seelster ($3.50, 1:51.2).
Live racing returns to Vernon Downs on Friday evening at 6:45 p.m.
(Vernon Downs)