Majestic Marvel turned aside a challenge from trotting mare Ionia in a battle of the favourites to win the $8,500 Preferred 3 featured on the mid-week program at The Raceway at Western Fair District.

Majestic Marvel was on the move early after getting away fourth and cleared to command near the :58.3 half-mile marker. The 1-2 favourite then faced immediate pressure from 7-2 second choice Ionia and they raced past three-quarters in 1:28.3 just heads apart. However, Majestic Marvel shook off his challenger down the stretch to score by one and a quarter lengths in 2:00.2. Ionia settled for second while early leader Star Photo edged out the wide-rallying Overcomebyvictory for show.

It was a Holliday family affair as driver Ryan Holliday was in the bike for his wife Caroline, who co-owns with breeder Ronald Corbett. Holliday's father David trains the four-year-old Majestic Son gelding, a career winner of nine races and $75,220 in 27 starts.

Majestic Marvel returned $3.10 to win.

To view Wednesday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Wednesday Results - Western Fair.