Washington, PA — The Wall shot the Lightning Lane and had just enough to capture Thursday’s (Jan. 28) $16,200 Open Handicap Pace at The Meadows.

The Wall (#5, black headgear) lifted in the Lightning Lane to narrowly prevail in a blanket finish. Chris Gooden photo.

Customarily a closer, The Wall flashed early speed for Jim Pantaleano, enabling him to work out a pocket trip behind the hard-used leader, Wild Wild Western. The 7-year-old Somebeachsomewhere-New Album gelding surged late to hold off the wide rally of Macadoodledoo by a head in 1:51, with Rock Candy third.

Neil Balcerak trains The Wall — who lifted his lifetime bankroll to $551,641 — and shares ownership with Matthew Morrison.

Tony Hall, Aaron Merriman and Dave Palone each collected three wins on the 13-race card.

Live racing at The Meadows continues Friday (Jan. 29), when the 13-race program features a pair of carryovers: $1,570.38 in the Pick-5 (races 8-12) and $1,331.72 in the final-race Super Hi-5. The Pennsylvania Horse Racing Association is offering free past performances for Friday’s card. First post is 12:45 p.m.