Forever Ivy worked out a cozy pocket trip, then blazed home in a swift :27.1 to capture Wednesday’s $22,500 Filly & Mare Preferred Handicap Pace at The Meadows

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Leaving from the rail, Ray Paver guided Forever Ivy to the two-hole behind Red Star Hottie, who had won three straight but was hampered by the nine post and a three-week layoff. Forever Ivy exploited that vulnerability, pouncing on Red Star Hottie late and defeating her by three-quarters of a length in 1:51.4. McGibson was a close-up third.

Charlie Norris trains Forever Ivy for owner-breeder Rebecca Ewing of Apple Creek, Ohio. The four-year-old daughter of Stand Forever-Shes A Ruff One returned to The Meadows after competing in the Ellamony Stakes at Flamboro Downs for her third win in 12 outings this year.

Dave Palone drove five winners — four for trainer Ron Burke — and Eric Ledford three on the 14-race card.

(With files from The Meadows)