Washington, Pa – Carolina Beach worked out a cozy pocket trip behind the strong leader, Wild Wild Western, then blew by him in the lane to capture Wednesday’s (Jan.20) $16,200 Open Handicap Pace at The Meadows.

Wild Wild Western threw down a 1:22.4 three quarters, putting away the outside challengers. That left the stretch wide open for Carolina Beach, who moved outside for Aaron Merriman and downed Wild Wild Western by 1-3/4 lengths in a sharp 1:51.1. The Wall rallied for show.

Carolina Beach wins for Aaron Merriman and trainer Bill Bercury at The Meadows on Wednesday. Chris Gooden photo. 

Bill Bercury trains Carolina Beach, a 7-year-old Somebeachsomewhere-Laughandbehappy gelding who lifted his lifetime bankroll to $421,298, for Renee Bercury.

Trainer Rom Burke fashioned a four-bagger on the 13-race card while Tony Hall and Dave Palone each piloted three winners.

Live racing at The Meadows continues Thursday when the 13-race program features a $9,893.72 carryover in the final-race Super Hi-5. First post is 12:45 p.m.