Tequila Talkin picked up valuable cover down the backside, then roared wide through the lane to capture Thursday’s feature at The Meadows, a $12,100 conditioned trot.
Tequila Talkin was fifth when Jim Pantaleano sent him on what appeared to be a first-over challenge to the leaders. But the duo flushed the live cover of Stickler Hanover, who provided escort service into the final turn. Tequila Talkin peeled off to the center of the track and scored in 1:54.2 — matching his career best — 1-1/4 lengths better than Stickler Hanover. Mystical Peter shot the Lightning Lane at 58-1 for show.
Richard Perfido trains the winner, a six-year-old Cantab Hall-Margarita Nights gelding who lifted his lifetime bankroll to $187,146, for Win Rhythm Stables.
Elsewhere on Thursday’s card, 14-year-old millionaire Dream Out Loud N rolled to victory in a $5,400 Claiming Handicap Pace for the 60th win of his illustrious career and 10th this season. The Bettor’s Delight-Nothin Butadreamer gelding scored for Jeremy Indof, trainer Samantha Blystone and owner Collin Ryan, but the connections’ joy may have been short-lived. The gallant gelding was claimed for the fifth straight race.
Mike Wilder piloted three winners on the 13-race card.
Live racing at The Meadows continues Friday when the 14-race program features a pair of stakes for freshman filly pacers — a $161,744 Pennsylvania Sires Stake and a $40,000 PA Stallion Series event. On the wagering front, the card offers a $22,417.60 carryover in the final-race Super Hi-5.
In addition, The Meadows Standardbred Owners Association will present “Family Fun Night,” which includes a variety of family-oriented activities. Special post time Friday is 5p.m.
(Meadows Standardbred Owners Association)