by Evan Pattak, for The Meadows

Washington, PA — Aaron Merriman, harness racing’s winningest driver in each of the last three years, collected four wins Wednesday (March 14) at The Meadows, lifting his career total to 9,996. With four more wins, he’ll become only the 13th driver in North American harness racing history to reach the 10,000 plateau.

Chris Gooden photo

Fancytucky won the $18,000 Filly & Mare Preferred Handicap Trot.

He crossed the wire first a fifth time, but his horse was disqualified for interference.

Merriman, 39, who splits his time between The Meadows and tracks in his native Ohio, was scheduled to drive Wednesday night at Northfield and Friday evening at Miami Valley in pursuit of the milestone mile before returning to The Meadows Saturday.

In Wednesday’s feature, the $18,000 Filly & Mare Preferred Handicap Trot, Fancytucky earned her second straight win with a long, steady uncovered move that carried her to victory in 1:58 over a “good” surface. Maewegonow was second, three-quarters of a length back, while longshot Miss Da Line rallied for show. Dan Rawlings piloted the 6-year-old daughter of Pinetucky-Beaucoup Amour, who lifted her career bankroll to $149,103, for trainer Troy McDougal, who owns with James Steuernagel.

Tony Hall fashioned a three-bagger on the 10-race card.

Live racing at The Meadows resumes Saturday, when the card features a $15,000 total-pool Pick-4 guarantee as well as St. Patrick’s Day fan festivities, contests and prizes. First post is 1:05 p.m.