Washington, PA — Emerald’s Legacy needed every inch of stretch to do it, but he finally edged past The Hazelton to win his third straight in Thursday’s (Dec. 14) $21,200 Open Handicap Trot at Hollywood Casino at The Meadows.

Emerald’s Legacy seized the early lead but released The Hazelton past the quarter when that one was too antsy to stay seated. That set the stage for the taut stretch duel, where Emerald’s Legacy prevailed by a neck in 1:52.4. Long shot Windsong Patriot finished third.

Emerald’s Legacy rallied to just reach for his third consecutive win in Thursday’s featured trot at The Meadows. Chris Gooden photo.

Dave Palone piloted the winner, a 4-year-old Father Patrick-Devilish Emerald gelding who lifted his lifetime bankroll to $183,585, for trainer Scott Betts and owners Tim Betts, Nick Catalano, Keith Pippi and Shanamphilaniklou. It was one of three victories for Palone on the 13-race card.

Live racing at The Meadows continues Friday (Dec. 15); first post is 12:45 p.m.