East Rutherford, NJ (Best E Casino) - Windsong's Legacy captured Saturday's 79th edition of the $1 million Hambletonian at the Meadowlands. The time for the one mile trot for three-year-olds was 1:54 1/5.

Windsong's Legacy made a strong push from the outside on the final turn and went on to post a one-length victory over Cantab Hall, last year's trotter of the year.

It marked the first victory in harness racing's premiere event for trainer Trond Smedshammer.

Meanwhile, Cash Hall, driven by the legendary John Campbell, placed third. Campbell was looking to extend his record of wins in the Hambletonian to six. He has not won this race since 1998 with Muscles Yankee.

Tom Ridge, the morning-line favorite for the event, led most of the race, but faded down the stretch and ended eighth in the 10-horse field. Meanwhile, Eilean Donon, who along with Tom Ridge captured last week's elimination races, finished last.

Windsong's Legacy, who has won five of seven races this year, paid $11.00, $5.60 and $4.00. Cantab Hall returned $4.60 and $3.40, while Cash Hall paid $3.00.

The Hambletonian has been conducted at the Meadowlands since 1981.