A Penny Earned lived up to odds-on billing in the featured trotting event Vernon Downs on Friday night, posting a 1:54.2 mile to claim the winner's share of a $7,500 purse.
Chris Lems sent the seven-year-old Conway Hall gelding to the front from the outset, working clear of My Lucky Word (John MacDonald) through a :27.3 first quarter mile. After rating a :29.2 breather in the second quarter and dismissing of My Lucky Word, A Penny Earned was forced to accelerate by the first-over Winding Hill (Jimmy Whittemore), who pressed to within three-quarters of a length on approach to the far turn. A Penny Earned responded immediately to the challenge, ultimately edging clear to a two-length triumph, the 28th of his career. Winding Hill sustained his pursuit in second, while My Lucky Word was nine lengths detached in third.
Trainer George Ducharme co-owns A Penny Earned with Alfred Ross, Paul Fontaine, and Nicola Oliva. A Penny Earned returned $3 to win.
John MacDonald led all drivers with three wins on the nine-race card, while Lems recorded a double.
The 50¢ Pick 5 once again went uncovered, resulting in a carryover of $1,101 to Saturday (May 14) evening's program. First post is slated for 6:45 p.m.
(Vernon Downs)