Palone big day includes Donna Dunn Memorial Final

WASHINGTON, PA, March 20, 2024 — Paper Heart (Heston Blue Chip-Paper Cut) again enjoyed escort service from GD Cool Otoole and again kicked by her in the lane to capture the $16,800 harness racing final of the Donna Dunn Memorial Pace for 3-and 4-year-old fillies and mares Wednesday at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows. Driver Dave Palone had a big day winning both feature events.

In last week’s preliminary leg, Paper Heart stalked GD Cool Otoole from the pocket and blew by late to score in a swift 1:53.3. On Wednesday, the fractions were slower but the results the same as Paper Heart drew off for Dave Palone to triumph in 1:55.2. Keen Cathy was a ground-saving second, 3 lengths back, with 19-1 long shot Gamine third.

PAPER HEART REPLAY

Jason Shaw trains Paper Heart, a 3-year-old filly who has won five of her last six starts and owns with Fortunate One LLC and Cory Kreiser.

Wednesday’s card also featured the $19,200 Filly & Mare Open Handicap Pace, which saw Alexa Skye (Somebeachsomewhere-Pirouette Hanover) and Always Gonna B You duel for the early lead. After Alexa Skye won that skirmish, she sprinted away from the field late to score a romp by six and one-half lengths over Always Gonna B You in a sharp 1:51.1. Fighting Evil completed the ticket.

Palone piloted the 7-year-old mare, who soared over $500,000 in career earnings, for trainer Virgil Morgan, Jr. and owners Let It Ride Stables Inc. and Odds On Racing.

ALEXA SKYE REPLAY

Palone finished the 13-race program with four victories.

For complete race results, click here: US Trotting results.

by Evan Pattak, for The Meadows Standardbred Owners Association