Washington, PA – Windsong Leo sprinted to the early lead, then withstood two challenges late to collect his 17th victory this year — and help Dave Palone to a six-bagger — in Saturday’s $18,000 Preferred Handicap Pace at The Meadows. Always A Prince and Southwind Amazon are the “winningest” horses in 2018 with 19 victories apiece.

Dave Palone guides Windsong Leo to one of his six wins Saturday (Nov. 17) in the $18,000 Preferred Handicap Pace at The Meadows. Chris Gooden photo

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 Lightning Lane and Phoenix Warrior N outside. The 6-year-old Jereme’s Jet-Windsong Goldie gelding prevailed in 1:51.2, 1/2-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.

Live racing at The Meadows resumes Monday, when the card features a $1,668.32 Pick 5 carryover and a Super Hi-5 jackpot of $260.50.