Washington, PA — Emerald’s Legacy let Tequila Talkin do the heavy lifting on the front end, then kicked by him in the Lightning Lane to capture his second straight in Thursday’s (Feb. 8) feature at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows, the $21,200 Open Handicap Trot.

Emerald’s Legacy wins Thursday’s feature at The Meadows for Palone and trainer Scott Betts. Chris Gooden photo.

Emerald’s Legacy and Tequila Talkin were assigned outside posts, but that didn’t stop them from dueling for the early lead. Emerald’s Legacy yielded to the pocket, but when Dave Palone pointed him inside in the lane, the 5-year-old Father Patrick-Devilish Emerald gelding was much the stronger horse, defeating Tequila Talkin by 1-3/4 lengths in 1:53. Swan Legacy was a ground-saving third.

Scott Betts trains Emerald’s Legacy, who now sports a career bankroll of $215,921, for Tim Betts, Nick Catalano, Keith Pippi and Shanamphilaniklou. It was one of three wins for Palone on the 13-race card.

Live racing at The Meadows continues Friday (Feb. 9) when the 13-race program features a $1,153.70 carryover in the Early Pentafecta (race 4). First post is 12:45 p.m.