Away fifth in the field of six, Kat steadily advanced on the leader, 1-2 favourite Blue Ivy, and kicked by her in the Lightning Lane to capture Thursday’s $19,200 Filly & Mare Open Handicap Pace at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows.
Once Dave Palone cleared every mare but Blue Ivy, he was able to knife back to the cones. That was a key ground-saving move, as the six-year-old daughter of Hes Watching-Atlantic Seelster was able to edge Blue Ivy by only a nose. Lydeo finished third.
Ron Burke trains Kat, who now boasts career earnings of $343,851, for Burke Racing Stable and Weaver Bruscemi LLC.
Kat ($13) was one of five winners on the 13-race card driven by Palone. He also teamed up with Burke for a victory with Splash Of Pink ($4.40). Palone's other winners were Cathy Hanover ($4.40) for the Brandon Presto stable, Okiedokiesmokie ($3.60) for trainer Justin Pirillo and Wheres Greg ($2.80) for conditioner Salvatore Digati.
Live harness racing at The Meadows continues on Friday, with first post at 12:45 p.m.
(With files from Meadows Standardbred Owners Association)