Huckabone sweeps features in grand slam performance

Vernon Downs leading driver Justin Huckabone swept the harness racing co-features with Da Boogie Man ($4.90) and Purameri ($3.10) as he drove four winners on Friday (June 3).

Da Boogie Man (RC Royalty) grabbed the $6,600 featured trot.

Golden Kronos (Steeven Genois) went right to the front and led to the quarter in :28.3.  He used a :30.0 second quarter and was first to the half in :58.3.  He continued to lead hitting three-quarters in 1:26.3

As they reached the stretch Da Boogie Man popped the pocket and came all out after Golden Kronos.  Golden Kronos dug in but Da Boogie Man was too strong and won in 1:55.2.  Golden Kronos had to settle for second.  American JJ (Michael Miller) finished third.

Da Boogie Man is a 5-year-old gelding.  He is owned by Jonathan Applebaum and trained by Huckabone.  It was his fifth win this season.  He now has eight career victories.

Purameri (American Ideal) easily captured the $6,600 featured fillies and mares pace.

Purameri led to the first quarter in :26.4.  Slowed things way down with a :30.2 second quarter to hit the half in :57.1.  Sweet Style (Adam Capizano) was first to make a move going first-up around the final turn.  Purameri led to three-quarters in 1:26.3.

As they made the turn for home Purameri shook off Sweet Style.  Milleniums Girl (Josh Kinney) became the major danger.  Purameri was too tough and won in 1:54.3.  Milleniums Girl was second best as Sweet Style finished third.

Purameri is a 4-year-old mare.  She is owned by Purple Haze Stables and trained by Jessica Okusko.  It was his first win this season.  She owns seven career victories.

J-Huck got his other wins with Win And Dream ($3.20) and Kisses From Above ($9.90).  Frank Affrunti had a driving double as Steven Ray had a training double.

Vernon Downs returns to live racing on Saturday (June 4) with a 9-race card starting at 6:05 p.m.

For complete race results, click here.