Windsong Leo hangs tough in Open

WASHINGTON, PA, Dec. 17, 2021 — Windsong Leo fought off late challenges inside and out to preserve his victory in Friday’s $16,000 Open Handicap Pace at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows.

Windsong Leo quarter-poled to the top and remained in control until the top of the stretch where his stablemate, Rockin Ron, loomed large outside while Carolina Beach angled for the Lightning Lane.

But the 9-year-old Jereme’s Jet-Windsong Goldie gelding held firm for Dave Palone, downing Carolina Beach by 3/4 lengths in 1:50.4, with Rockin Ron a close-up third.

It was career win 67 for Windsong Leo and lifted his lifetime bankroll to $779,837. Ron Burke trains him for Burke Racing Stable, Weaver Bruscemi LLC and Phillip Collura.

WINDSONG LEO REPLAY

Elsewhere on Friday’s card, 14-year-old Dream Out Loud N, who faces mandatory retirement at the end of December, won his eighth straight and 19th this year in a $10,000 Claiming Pace.

The victory lifted him back into a tie with Winning Shadow and Swan Fine Lady for most 2021 wins in North America. Palone piloted the Bettor’s Delight-Nothin Butadreamer gelding for trainer Marcus Marashian, who owns with Tina Porfilio.

Jim Pantaleano and Palone each collected three wins on the 11-race card.

Live racing at The Meadows resumes Tuesday when the 13-race program features a $17,603.99 carryover in the final-race Super Hi-5. First post is 12:45 PM.

For full race results, click here.

by Evan Pattak, for the MSOA