J Eagle Feather kept his challengers at bay to win the $11,500 Preferred 2 Pace at Grand River Raceway in his season's debut on Friday, July 6.

Returning to action for the first time since a 2017 April Fools' Day victory at Woodbine Racetrack, J Eagle Feather prevailed by a nose over Boomboom Ballykeel in 1:55.4. The winner had pocketed that rival early on through a :27.1 quarter and then turned back 7-5 favourite Lets Wait And See after middle splits of :57.1 and 1:26.1. A resurgent Boomboom Ballykeel closed through the passing lane, but came up just short in the photo finish. Third prize went to longshot Single White Sock, who went from last to show.

J Eagle Feather earned his ninth career win from 32 starts and lifted his earnings to $133,122. Sent postward at odds of 5-1, he paid $12.50 to win.

Travis Cullen drives and co-owns the six-year-old Bettors Delight gelding with Manitoba's Keith Hannah while Jodie Cullen handles the training duties.

To view Friday's harness racing results, click on the following link: Friday Results - Grand River Raceway.