A dominant force at the top class last season, Michel Nolette’s homebred The Light Speed returned to the $10,000 Preferred Handicap Pace at Rideau Carleton Raceway with vigor to score a coast-to-coast victory on Sunday night (April 2).

Driven by trainer Guy Gagnon, The Light Speed grabbed the front from post two and faced nothing but respect. Controlling a clip of :27.2, :57.2 and 1:25.4, The Light Speed’s main challenge came off the turn from National Debt, who continued a grind from last towards the lead. National Debt had too much ground to recoup, though, and settled for second by three-quarter lengths in a 1:54.3 mile to The Light Speed while Best Honey Hanover took third from Getyourlicenseliam and Lovemybrockinbird checked in last.

A five-year-old gelding by Moon Beam, The Light Speed won his 29th race from 73 starts and has now earned $214,879. He paid $4.20 to win.

Trainer Mandy Archer scored a hat trick on the opening-night card. Her wins came with Speak Of War (1:56.1 winning mile; $2.70 to win), Smilingbillythekid (1:56.2; $6.50) and Rolling With Rock (1:55.3; $10.80).

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