Sent off in his last start at 21-1, Le Massif received more public support in the $10,135 Open 2 Pace at Vernon Downs on Saturday, Sept. 7 and he didn't disappoint his backers.
Syracuse Express (John MacDonald) was first to the quarter in :28.4, with Le Massif settled in the pocket for Steeven Genois. Bluesville (Jimmy Whittemore) came first-up and challenged for the lead going down the backstretch, but Syracuse Express maintained that lead to the half in :57.1. He then shook off Bluesville to hit three-quarters on top in 1:24.
As they reached the stretch Le Massif ($14.80) scurried right on by the pacesetter to win in 1:52.4. War Of Will (Leon Bailey) came up to finish second. Syracuse Express had to settle for third.
Le Massif is a five-year-old horse by Shanghai Phil. He is owned by Laurent Pednault and co-owned by trainer Melanie Boulianne of Quebec. It was his sixth win this season, and he now has 14 career victories.
Claude Huckabone III had a day to remember as he had a driving grand slam and a training triple. Huckabone III had driver-training wins with Medeena, Pearl Washing Tan, and Press Seven. He picked up his other driving win with Turbo Class.
Vernon Downs returns to live harness racing on Friday (Sept. 13) starting at 6:05 p.m.
(With files from Vernon)