The features at Vernon Downs this evening involve three-year-olds battling in the Zweig Memorial Filly Trot and the Zweig Memorial Open Trot. The headliners are carded as Race 8 and Race 9 respectively. On the betting menu is a Daily Double wager which will be my focus.

Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.

Race 8-Zweig Memorial 3-year-old Filly Trot-$140,000 Purse

5-Iteration (7/2)-Comes off a sharp win at Stga in the slop and has been there at the wire in every start this year except for a break in stride on 7-17 in the Delvin Miller. Sports a perfect 3-3 record here, draws the prime post and can be put in play early. Looks like the one to beat.
1-Contested Hanover (5-1)-Has raced well but hasn't connected for a 2021 win. Tetrick takes a seat, and he might be able to get a pocket ride and trip out at a nice price.
2-Darlene Hanover (5/2)-Made it look easy at PcD last week and cashed a big check. Isn't as versatile as #5 but has raced well in both VD starts. Program chalk deserves respect but may need quick fractions to take a picture.
4-Aunt Irene (10-1)-Comes off a nice effort on the 5/8's at PcD from the 8-hole. That was the only start away from M1 this year and may continue the upswing on the big track tonight. Probably isn't ready for a picture but Dunn can keep her in play and could spice up the trifecta.

Race 9-Zweig Memorial Open Trot-$325,000 Purse

4-Dancingthedark M (5/2)-Melander trainee has broken stride in 3 of the last 6 starts. Unless the trip is awful, my belief is this colt wins if he stays flat. Somewhat a risky play but will respect connections and appears to stand above this field if all systems are "go".
5-Balenciaga (7/2)-Consistency hasn't been a strong suit but is improving, winning 2 of the last 3. Last start at Tioga was a strong effort, battled with a 55.4 last half to win. This won't be as easy but has raced well on a larger oval. Has the gate speed for Zeron to work an efficient trip.
1-Take All Comers (6-1)-This Campbell trainee cashes checks but has been a notch or two below others. Does have the gate speed to stay inside and then roll late. Doesn't look like a win candidate but should be in the hunt at the wire.
6-Spy Booth (12-1)-Takter trainee came 2nd in the Hambo with the benefit of a nice steer by Tetrick. Dunn takes the lines tonight and should add to this year's $243,192 bankroll. Is probably an outsider for its 1st picture, has shown speed but only one good move.

Zweig Daily Double

$25 Double-5/4
$10 Double-5/5
$8 Double-1/4
$8 Double-2/4

Total Bet=$51

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