John Dutton followed the live first-over cover of Commander Frank, then edged by him in deep stretch to capture the $29,041 Open Handicap Trot at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows on Thursday, May 9.

John Dutton was sixth when Hunter Myers tipped him off the cones to follow Commander Frank; both were pursuing Jeffery P, who was on the point seeking his third straight win. After a protracted battle, Commander Frank moved past but couldn’t hold off John Dutton, who downed him by a head in 1:54.2. Jeffery P was a close-up third.

Ron Burke trains John Dutton, a four-year-old What The Hill-Fast Love gelding who boosted his career bankroll over $455,000, for Burke Racing Stable, Knox Services, Johnny Yoder and RAS Racing. Rebounding from a break in stride last time out on April 22 at Miami Valley Raceway, the trotter is now three-for-six this year win and has 15 wins lifetime. He paid $14 for the mild 6-1 upset.

Aaron Merriman piloted four winners on the 13-race card.

Live harness racing at The Meadows continues on Friday when the 13-race program features a pair of stakes for three-year-old filly trotters: a $145,196 USD Pennsylvania Sires Stakes and an $80,000 USD PA Stallion Series event. On the wagering front, the card offers a $725.19 carryover in the Middle Pentafecta (Race 7). First post is 12:45 p.m.

(With files from Meadows Standardbred Owners Association)