Natameri (John MacDonald) captures the featured $10,000 Open 1 Pace at Vernon Downs on Saturday (September 24).
Shrimp And Grits (Leon Bailey) took the quick lead but was joined right away by Mister Miami (Joe Nassimos). The two sped into the first turn side-by-side with Mister Miami getting to the quarter first in :25.4. He used a :28.2 second quarter to lead to the half in :54.1. Natameri ($2.10) came flying by like he was shot out of a cannon heading for the final turn. He hit three-quarters first in 1:22.
As they reached the stretch Natameri was all by himself and won easily in a lifetime best of 1:49.4. Isaac (Frank Affrunti) was second best. Shrimp And Grits finished third.
Natameri is a four-year-old gelding by American Ideal. He is owned by the Purple Haze Stables and trained by Jessica Okusko. It was his eighth win in 10 starts this season. He now has 14 career victories.
Steeven Genois drove three winners on the card and Kerin Warner had three training wins. The two combined for a win with Ocean Blue ($16.40). Genois got his other wins with Lets Ryde Girl ($10.40) and Ongoing Royalty ($7.80). Kerin Warner got his other victories with Poker Play ($13.60) and Bet Big On Blue ($4.00).
Live racing returns to Vernon Downs on Friday (Sept. 30).
(Vernon Downs)