In a gripping showdown on Sunday, June 9, The Light Speed emerged triumphant in the $10,000 Preferred Pace, stealing the spotlight on the 10-race card at Rideau Carleton Raceway.
Starting from the outside post five amidst a competitive field, driver Guy Gagnon opted for a strategic approach, initially positioning The Light Speed in fifth. Meanwhile, the race unfolded with intensity at the front. Aladdin, under Stephane Brosseau's guidance, seized control early, leading the pack in the opening quarter in a brisk :28.1. However, Aladdin's lead was short-lived as Light The Torch, steered by Pascal Berube, made a bold move to take over before reaching the half-mile mark in :56.2. At this juncture, The Light Speed commenced his forward surge, advancing to third position on the outside.
With determination, The Light Speed accelerated down the backstretch, nearly overtaking Light The Torch by the three-quarter pole, only for his rival to mount a fierce defence. The duel between the leaders intensified as they reached the three-quarter mark in 1:24.3, with neither willing to yield.
In a tactical manoeuvre around the final turn, Light The Torch maintained his lead, but The Light Speed persisted, closing in on the inside. As they entered the homestretch, The Light Speed managed to edge past Light The Torch, but the challenge wasn't over yet. Jet Rock, piloted by Robert Shepherd, made a late surge from cover, threatening to steal the victory. However, The Light Speed held on, crossing the wire by a nose in a thrilling finish, clocking in at 1:53.4. Light The Torch secured third place.
With this victory, The Light Speed adds another notch to his impressive record, boasting seven wins out of 13 races in 2024. Trained by Guy Gagnon and owned by Michel Nolette, this six-year-old gelding, sired by Moon Beam-Jayma, now claims 52 career victories out of 117 starts, with total earnings reaching $372,714.