So deep in the Lightning Lane he was barely on the course, Voila American burst through the cramped quarters Wednesday to capture a $16,500 conditioned trot in 1:54.1, equaling The Meadows track record

for older trotting stallions.

Voila American was shuffled to fourth at the top of the stretch, and seemingly headed for a minor award behind the front-ending Big Star Chuck. But when the outside flow stalled, the Lightning Lane became a viable option for the pocket-sitting Primo Spur and Voila American behind him.

Primo Spur hit the passing lane first, but Dave Palone guided Voila American through the narrowest of openings. The five-year-old son of Varenne-Sweet American downed Primo Spur by half a length, with Dangerous Tide a first-over third.

The time equaled the mark established just two weeks ago by Superfast Stuart, a late scratch from Wednesday’s race. Bob Key leases Voila American, who shaved a tick from his lifetime mark.

Palone drove six winners on the 13-race card.

(The Meadows)