Washington, PA — Activation moved crisply first over, gobbled up the leader and drew off late to capture Thursday’s (July 20) $15,000 championship of a Pop Up Series for freshman colt and gelding trotters at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows.

The card also featured a $15,000 Pop Up Series final for 2-year-old filly trotters, which went to Cantab’s Joy.

Activation rolled home in a career-best 1:57.3. Chris Gooden photo.

Greenback Session had to work hard for the early lead, finally crossing over near the three-eighths. That made him vulnerable to the challenge of Activation, who moved alertly from third for Anthony MacDonald and rolled home in a career-best 1:57.3, 1-1/2 lengths better than Marching Fourth. My Bar Tab completed the ticket.

Tim Twaddle trains Activation, a Father Patrick-Repentance gelding, for Thestable Activation Group.

Cantab’s Joy was a narrow winner in 1:59.2. Chris Gooden photo.

Cantab’s Joy remained unbeaten after two career starts, grabbing the lead first over for Jeremy Indof and just holding off the Lightning Lane challenge of Noelle’s Alibi, edging her by a neck in 1:59.2. Young And Reckless rallied for show.

Todd Luther conditions Cantab’s Joy, a daughter of Cantab Hall-Traviata, for Greg Luther Racing.

Mike Wilder, MacDonald and Twaddle each enjoyed a triple on the 12-race card.

Live racing at The Meadows continues Friday when the 12-race program kicks off at 5:10 p.m.