by Evan Pattak, for The Meadows

Washington, PA — Goodtogo Hanover fought hard for the early lead, then rolled to her fourth straight victory in Wednesday’s (April 6) opening leg of the Whata Donato Trot at The Meadows. Waterview Hanover captured the other $17,500 opening-leg division in the event for 3-year-old fillies. The series honors Whata Donato, a fast-class trotting mare currently performing at The Meadows for owner Frank Poerio, Jr. and trainer/driver Doug Snyder.

Chris Gooden photo

Goodtogo Hanover won her Whata Donato split Wednesday at The Meadows.

Goodtogo Hanover left from post two and was challenged for the early lead by several rivals. But Brian Zendt wouldn’t release them, wanting the point for the daughter of Explosive Matter-Grammy Hall, even though it cost him a 27.1 opening quarter to maintain it. The strategy proved successful, as Goodtogo Hanover coasted home in 1:56.4, 3-1/4 lengths better than My Pink Bike, with Rule Of Hall third. Bill Zendt trains Goodtogo Hanover and owns with Gary Saul.

In the $20,000 Winners Over $10,000 Life Trot, Tamarind wore down the leader, Trustworthy Kid, with a relentless uncovered bid and downed him by a half-length in 1:53.1. I Know My Chip earned show. Aaron Merriman drove the 8-year-old son of Angus Hall-Spicegirl Kosmos, who now boasts $798,299 in career earnings, for owner/trainer Bill Bercury.

Dave Palone piloted four winners — including a pair for his brother, trainer Mike Palone — on the 15-race card.