The Light Speed posted two wins in a row in the $10,000 Preferred Handicap Pace at Rideau Carleton Raceway before finishing second last week by a narrow margin, but the Guy Gagnon trainee came back on Sunday, Nov. 12 with a vengeance to return to his winning ways.
Making his way back to get his picture taken was no easy feat as Guy Gagnon and his student got away fourth off the car. Bayfield Beach (Samuel Fillion) and Dylans Bank (Jimmy Gagnon) battled on the front towards the first panel in :27.1. Bayfield Beach achieved the lead after that station and The Light Speed tipped out first over on the way to the half in :56.1. The Light Speed took over and set one more panel in 1:24.3 before setting his sights on the wire. Jet Rock (Robert Shepherd) followed his cover to the final turn before the pair found themselves in a stretch battle. Jet Rock posted the swiftest last quarter in :28.3, but The Light Speed prevailed for the victory by a head at the light in 1:53.2. Vanilla Malted (William Roy) rallied from sixth to take the show spot.
Michel Nolette bred and owns the five-year-old Moon Beam gelding, who earned his 16th win of the season from 27 starts. Only three other horses in all of North America have more wins this season. The Light Speed moved his career bankroll to $324,054 with his 44th career victory. He returned $4.40 to his backers as the bettors' choice.
To view Sunday's harness racing results, click the following link: Sunday Results - Rideau Carleton Raceway.