by Evan Pattak, for The Meadows

Washington, PA — Tamarind outdueled Lady’s Dude for the early lead, then held off that rival late to capture Wednesday’s (Jan. 20) $20,000 Winners Over $10,000 Life/Preferred Handicap Trot at The Meadows.

Once Tamarind reached the top, Aaron Merriman threw on the breaks and gave the 8-year-old Angus Hall-Spicegirl Kosmos gelding a comfortable 58.1 opening half. With the back markers effectively out of it, Tamarind had only Lady’s Dude to beat, which he did by a neck in 1:55.2. TSM Photo Bugger was a ground-saving third.

Bill Bercury owns and trains Tamarind, who now boasts $748,249 in career earnings.

Merriman collected four wins and Dave Palone three on the 15-race card.

Live racing at The Meadows resumes Friday with a special post time of 5 p.m. Friday’s card features a $25,000 total-pool guarantee for the Pick-5 (races 9-13) and a $5,000 total pool guarantee for the Pick-4 (races 4-7).