Windsong Leo seized the early lead and steadily drew away from the field, cruising to a six-and-a-half-length romp in Saturday’s $20,000 Preferred Handicap Pace at The Meadows.

With Windsong Leo’s archrival, Phoenix Warrior N, stuck outside and unable to clear, Dave Palone gunned the six-year-old Jeremes Jet-Windsong Goldie gelding to a :55 back half in the slop, discouraging all challenges. He triumphed in 1:50.3, with Anythingforlove A and the game Phoenix Warrior N completing the ticket.

Ron Burke trains Windsong Leo, who won for the 16th time this year and pushed his career bankroll to $367,250, for Burke Racing Stable, Weaver Bruscemi LLC and Phil Collura.

Palone and Burke teamed for three wins on the 13-race card while Jim Pantaleano and Dan Rawlings also fashioned triples.

(The Meadows)