by Evan Pattak, for The Meadows

Washington, PA — The Dark Shadow thwarted Bilbo Hanover twice — once in the first quarter and again in the last — en route to victory in Monday’s (March 19) feature at The Meadows, a $13,000 conditioned pace.

Chris Gooden photo

The Dark Shadow drew off under Dave Palone’s urging and downed Bilbo Hanover by 2-1/2 lengths in 1:52.3.

The Dark Shadow would not release Bilbo Hanover in their duel for the early lead, forcing him to drop in third. The game challenger tried again with a first-over bid, but The Dark Shadow drew off under Dave Palone’s urging and downed Bilbo Hanover by 2-1/2 lengths in 1:52.3. Dew N Doughnuts was a ground-saving third.

Ron Burke trains The Dark Shadow, a 4-year-old Shadow Play-Bestofbothworlds gelding who extended his career bankroll to $133,313, for Burke Racing Stable and Weaver Bruscemi LLC.

Palone collected three wins on the 10-race card while Aaron Merriman and trainer Clay Faurot Jr. teamed for a pair of victories.

Live racing at The Meadows resumes Tuesday, when the card features a pair of carryovers — a $3,144.45 carryover in the day’s first superfecta and a $1,583.50 carryover in the Pick-5 (races six-10).