Friday night grand slam for Barton Dalious

Harness racing driver Barton Dalious has had a terrific first year at Vernon Downs so far this season as he added four more winning drives on Friday (July 8).

The young phenom combined with trainer Jeff Sorenson to get wins with Treasurethosechips ($5.00), Won Surreal Deal ($3.30), Rally Your Crew ($3.20).  His fourth straight win came with Ladyyouaregorgeous ($4.00).

Natameri (American Ideal) and driver Frank Affrunti hung on to capture the $7,700 Open Pace.

Natameri ($2.70) blasts out of the gate and goes straight to the front and led to the first quarter in :25.4.  He slowed things down and used a :29.3 second quarter to hit the half first in :55.2.  He cruised to three-quarters in 1:23.1.

As they made the turn for home Natameri was still in control as Lyons Pegasus (Justin Huckabone) waited patiently in the pocket.  As they reached deep stretch Lyons Pegasus made his move coming all out after the leader.  Natameri dug in and held on to win narrowly in 1:51.0.  Lyons Pegasus had to settle for second money.  Northern Rein (Chris Long) finished third.

NATAMERI REPLAY

Natameri is owned by the Purple Haze Stables and trained by Jessica Okusko.  It was her third win in four starts this season and her ninth career victory.

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (July 9) featuring the Dr. Harry M. Zweig Memorial races.  Post time for 11-race card is 12:15 p.m.

For complete race results, click here.

by John Horne, for Vernon Downs