by Evan Pattak, for The Meadows
Washington, PA — Kingofthejungle moved smartly first-over for Aaron Merriman and went on to capture Saturday’s (Dec. 3) $20,000 Preferred Pace at The Meadows. It was one of five wins on the card for Merriman, including a pair for trainer Mike Dowdall with Believeinthespirit (race four $3.60) and Cruise Control (race eight, $8.00).
Chris Gooden photo
Kingofthejungle’s win in the feature content provides Merriman with one of five triumphs at The Meadows on Saturday.
Kingofthejungle was third near the three-quarters when Merriman sent him after the leader, Atta Boy Dan. The 5-year-old Well Said-Allamerican Calico gelding overtook Atta Boy Dan around the final turn and held off the rallying Doctor RJ by a neck to prevail in 1:52.2. Atta Boy Dan saved show.
Jack Smith trains Kingofthejungle, who extended his career bankroll to $359,316, for Fox Racing Inc. and Darius Oshidar.
Merriman’s other driving victories were behind Skull Of Roses (race seven, $12.20) and Made Well (race 13, $4.20).
He now leads his closest pursuer for year-end driving honors, George Napolitano Jr., by 789 to 675.
Rags to Riches of PA enjoyed an ownership triple on the 13-race card.