Alberta invader Royal Renegade was pocketed early on, but took the passing lane route to earn his first Fraser Downs win in the $12,000 Open Pace on Friday night (January 19).

Trained by David McKellar for owners Paul Sanders and Christine Cutting, Royal Renegade quickly fired to command from post six in rein to David Hudon, but was looped by insider Sterling Cooper by the :28.3 quarter pole. The six-year-old JK Royal Flush gelding proceeded to track the new leader through middle splits of :58 and 1:26.3 while trailing tier starter Sabine Pass launched a challenge with even-money favourite Buddy Weiser fanning three-wide in the final turn. As the Open pacers raced down the stretch, Royal Renegade shot through the passing lane and prevailed by half a length in the four-way finish in 1:56.2 over the sloppy track. Sterling Cooper held for second ahead of Sabine Pass and Buddy Weiser.

Royal Renegade, a two-time runner-up in his first three Fraser starts since arriving last month, paid $12.50 to win as the 5-1 fourth wagering choice. The victory was his 15th lifetime, pushing his bankroll to $125,659.

To view Friday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Friday Results - Fraser Downs.