Vernon, N.Y. — Charlene Long's Oh No Three O ($6.70) assumed command early in Friday (November 6) evening's $7000 featured trot at Vernon Downs, never looking back en route to a 5-1/4 length harness racing victory.
The 8-year-old Ken Warkentin gelding worked to clear Twice Too Nice (John MacDonald) through a :28.2 initial quarter mile, subsequently working clear and forcing his six rivals to chase him through intermediate splits of :57.1 and 1:25.2. Nearly three lengths clear on approach to the top of the stretch, Oh No Three O drew clearer yet as Wings of Royalty (Chris Lems) pursued more intently, ultimately prevailing in 1:56 for his 25th career victory and second consecutive triumph. Wings of Royalty was a clear second, while Fox Valley Steffen (John Kokinos) rallied mildly to save third. Twice Too Nice broke stride upon cornering for home, checking in last of the septet after her early involvement.
Jeffrey Long drove Oh No Three O for trainer Paul Long.
Chris Lems led all drivers with three wins on the 11-race card, teaming up with Sweet Bettor ($10.20, 1:54.2), Pounce K ($5.00, 1:56.1), and Transit Hanover ($2.10, 1:57.1). Current leading driver John MacDonald's lone tally with Socks and Shuzy ($3.80, 1:57) however kept him six wins clear of Lems with five programs remaining in the 2015 season.
Live racing continues at Vernon Downs with an 11-race program on Saturday (November 7) evening. The first race is due off at 6:45 Eastern Standard Time.
by James Witherite, Vernon Downs