Wingsong Leo repels late challenge

WASHINGTON, PA, Dec. 23, 2021 — Windsong Leo withstood the furious Lightning Lane drive of Carolina Beach and collected his third straight harness racing victory in Thursday’s $16,000 Open Pace at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows.

Carolina Beach looped Windsong Leo from the gate, but the 9-year-old Jereme’s Jet-Windsong Goldie gelding persevered until reaching the point.

When Dave Palone gave Windsong Leo a 30 second-quarter breather, he was refreshed and able to hold off Carolina Beach by 1/2 length in 1:52. Jahan Hanover completed the ticket.

Ron Burke trains Windsong Leo, who lifted his lifetime bankroll to $787,837, for Burke Racing Stable, Weaver Bruscemi LLC and Phillip Collura.

WINDSONG LEO REPLAY

Elsewhere on Thursday’s card, just eight days from his mandatory retirement, 14-year-old Dream Out Loud N won his 20th race this year — and ninth in a row — to move back into a tie with Winning Shadow for North America’s “winningest” horse of 2021 . . . and boost his career earnings to $1,112,494. Palone drove for trainer Marcus Marashian, who owns the Bettor’s Delight-Nothin Butadreamer gelding with Tina Porfilio.

Palone notched four wins and Brian Zendt three on the 13-race card.

Following a Christmas break, live racing at The Meadows resumes Tuesday, first post 12:45 PM.

For full race results, click here.

By Evan Pattak, for The Meadows Standardbred Owners Association