Vernon Downs celebrating 70th anniversary

Vernon Downs is proud to honor its 70th anniversary on Saturday (July 1).

70 years ago this Saturday, Vernon Downs first opened their doors for harness racing. The first race on opening night, July 1, 1953, was won by Bob Abbe II. He paid $38.60 to win on a $2.00 wager.

The first race this Saturday, Vernon will honor long time race caller Jim Moran.  Moran called races at Vernon for over 50 years.  The 83-year-old retired in 2014.  After the first race this Saturday Moran will be in the winner’s circle and talk about the track history.  He will then come inside and reminisce with fans while signing autographs.

Other feature races include the Political Friends of Vernon Downs Pace (race four).  Vernon Downs has been blessed by all our local politicians.  Earlier this month thanks to their hard work paving the way to keep their doors open at Vernon Downs for many more years.

Race seven will be the $10,000 70^th Anniversary Pace.  The Vernon Downs legendary gelding JK Panache will be leading the post parade for the anniversary pace.  JK Panache is co-holder of the fastest mile ever ran at Vernon along with Fireyourguns stopping the clock at 1:47.3.  JK Panache had 31 wins at Vernon.  17 of those victories were under 1:50.00.

During this historic night the “Miracle Mile” will feature food trucks, giveaways, as well as a visit from Cait’s Characters for the kids.  A huge display of fireworks will follow live racing.  The 9-race card starts at 6:05 p.m.

For more information, click here.

To view complete Saturday entries, click here.

by John Horne, for Vernon Downs