by Evan Pattak, for The Meadows

Washington, PA— Trailing by 7-1/2 lengths at the half, Barn Girl unleashed a sustained bidfor Aaron Merriman that carried her to an impressive victory — her thirdstraight and sixth in her last seven starts — in Wednesday’s (Jan. 18) $20,000 Filly& Mare Preferred Handicap Trot at The Meadows.

A determinedWhata Donato, who was parked to the three-eighths before getting the lead,appeared to have the field put away heading into the stretch. But Barn Girl rocketedby her, drawing off to defeat her by 2-1/2 lengths in 1:56.4 over a “good”surface. Early leader Unefoisdansmavie earned show.

Bill Bercurytrains Barn Girl, a 5-year-old daughter of Cash Hall-Turquoise Sweetie whotriumphed for the 29^th time in 58 career outings (50 percent) andextended her lifetime bankroll to $377,796, for Renee Bercury.

Wilbur Yoderand trainer Norm Parker teamed for a pair of wins on the 13-race card whileDave Palone, Dan Rawlings and Merriman also enjoyed two-baggers.