Trust The Artist lost a heartbreaker in last week’s Open Pace at Alberta Downs when he was hauled down in the final strides, but he went the distance in today’s

$8,800 affair.

Trainer/driver Kelly Hoerdt rolled Trust The Artist to immediate command from Post 3, and the seven-year-old son of Real Artist tore through panels of :26.4, :57.1 and 1:26 before firing home in :27.4 to seal the deal by a length in 1:53.4. Clintons Escape was second best, and Greek Ruler rounded out the top three in the six-horse affair.

Hoerdt shares ownership on the 40-time winner with fellow Beaumont, Albertans Blair Corbeil and Mike McAllister. The victory helped the pacer improve his 2011 record to 6-7-0 in 18 tries while banking more than $45,000 along the way. The veteran is closing in on $500,000 in lifetime earnings.

To view results for Monday's card of harness racing, click the following link: Monday Results – Alberta Downs.