Forsaking his usual closing style, Tamarind roared to the front and never relinquished the lead as he captured Tuesday’s $20,000 Winners Over $10,000 Life/Preferred Handicap Trot at The Meadows.

Tamarind had to work hard for the lead from Post 7, but when Aaron Merriman gave him a :29.4 second-quarter breather, he remained strong late. The six-year-old son of Angus Hall-Spicegirl Kosmos scored in 1:53.4, matching his career best with his half-length score over Trustworthy Kid. Count Me In finished third.

Bill Bercury owns and trains Tamarind, who extended his lifetime bankroll to $538,089.

It was one of five wins for Merriman on the 15-race card.

(The Meadows)