Driver Pascal Berube secured a pocket trip for Yves Tessier trainee National Debt and catapulted off the drafting ride to win the $10,500 Preferred Handicap Pace at Rideau Carleton Raceway on Sunday (April 24).

Lovemyrockinbird protected position from the pylon post to lead by a :26 first quarter with National Debt sitting second. Unchallenged by a :56.1 half, Lovemyrockinbird endured minor pressure from 6-5 favourite The Light Speed up the backside to three-quarters in 1:24.1 and continued to battle that foe around the final turn. But coming to the open stretch, National Debt dove inside and slid a half length in front of Lovemyrockinbird to win in 1:52.3. The Light Speed finished third, another length behind, with Major Hill rallying for fourth.

An 11-year-old stallion by Allamerican Native, National Debt won his third race from seven starts this season and his 83rd from 233 overall. He has now earned $708,053 and paid $16.50 to win.

To view Sunday’s harness racing results, click the following link: Sunday Results – Rideau Carleton Raceway.