Windsong Leo sprinted to the early lead and then withstood two challenges late to collect his 17th victory this year — and help Dave Palone to a six-bagger — in the $18,000 Preferred Handicap Pace at The Meadows on Saturday, Nov. 17.
Windsong Leo endured a :27 opening quarter. But when Palone gave him a :29.2 second-panel breather, he had enough to hold off the bids of Anythingforlove A in the passing lane and Phoenix Warrior N outside. The six-year-old Jeremes Jet-Windsong Goldie gelding prevailed in 1:51.2, a half length better than Anythingforlove A with Phoenix Warrior N third.
Ron Burke trains Windsong Leo, who now boasts $378,650 in career earnings, for Burke Racing Stable, Weaver Bruscemi LLC and Phillip Collura.
Aaron Merriman and Burke each enjoyed a triple on the 13-race card.
Always A Prince and Southwind Amazon are the “winningest” horses in 2018 with 19 victories apiece.
Live racing at The Meadows resumes Monday, Nov. 19 when the card features a $1,668.32 Pick 5 carryover and a Super Hi-5 jackpot of $260.50.
(The Meadows)