Vernon, NY --- Scott Woogen's K J's Caroline ($6.00) parried all comers in Thursday night's (September 22) $11,000 Mares Miracle Mile/Open Handicap Pace at Vernon Downs, and leading driver John MacDonald tallied another five wins on the evening's 10-race program.

 

K J's Caroline, debuting for trainer Paul Long on arrival from Tioga Downs, made her move to the fore on the clubhouse turn after settling close to a spritely early pace. Roman Lopez brushed the 6-year-old Roddy's Bags Again mare to the fore to clear Bettorhaveanother (Chris Lems) upon reaching the back of the course, subsequently bracing for heavy pressure from the first-over Yes You Can (Ben McNeil) on the far turn.

 

After enduring a :27.2 third quarter, K J's Caroline edged away, driven out to fend off a late charge from Bettorhaveanother-who found clearance to vacate the pegs in the final eighth-by half a length in 1:51.2. Southern Girl (Fern Paquet, Jr.) mounted a belated rally to take third.

 

While a Vernon newcomer took top equine honors for the evening, the "Prime Minister" continued his reign at Vernon Downs with a five-win night. MacDonald paired up with The Filly Princess ($5.80, 1:52.2), I Saw Red ($5.40, 1:53.4), Cheyenne Patti ($9.00, 1:55), E R Rhonda ($3.70, 1:54.2), and Tempus Seelster ($3.50, 1:51.2).

 

Live racing returns to Vernon Downs on Friday evening (September 23); post time is slated for 6:45 p.m.