by Evan Pattak, for the Meadows

Washington, PA — Parked the first three-eighths, Pounce K still had enough zip to hold off his stablemate down the backside Monday (March 11) and score his second straight victory in the Ken Weaver Memorial Trot at The Meadows.

The second leg of the series for 3- and 4-year-old colts, horses and geldings was conducted over three divisions, with NF Notebook and September Hall taking the other $11,250 splits.

Trainer/driver Charlie Norris allowed Pounce K to pursue the lead at his own speed, but that lead appeared tenuous when Shimmering Crown moved first over. Pounce K shrugged off the challenge and triumphed in 1:59.3, 2-1/2 lengths better than Red Falkor. Mateo M finished third.

Bob Key bred and owns Pounce K, a sophomore son of Donato Hanover-Key’s La Nina.

In the $20,000 Filly & Mare Preferred Handicap Pace, Ali Rush, a low-end claimer as recently as late January, completed her ascent to the top of the class ladder by upsetting 4-5 favorite Do Me Honor by a head in 1:52.4, matching her career best. Brett Miller drove for trainer Darren Taneyhill and owner Jessica Hensley.

Since Hensley’s Jan. 28 $5,000 claim of Ali Rush, the 8-year-old daughter of Dragon Again-Alicrombie has won five of six starts, missing by a neck in her only defeat.

Miller drove five winners and Dave Palone four on the 15-race card, which also featured the first career winning drive for Stephen White, who guided Ideal Treasure home at a lush 53-1.