g in tandem with favourite Beavercreek Artist, Adore Him parked the public choice to the quarter and held off a late bid from Njs Trick Pistol to snag a nose victory in the $5,000 Preferred Pace at Leamington Raceway on Sunday, Oct. 14.

Adore Him led first-over Beavercreek Artist by a half length through a :27.2 opening quarter before handing the favourite the pocket approaching lap two. The six-year-old Shadow Play gelding continued with a length lead through a :56.3 half and to three-quarters in 1:26.4 while Njs Trick Pistol, from fourth, angled first over heading into the final turn. Njs Trick Pistol narrowed in on Adore Him nearing the wire but finished a close second in the 1:57.1 mile. Bestofthebunch, riding the rail, took third.

Owned by Robert Blake, Adore Him won his sixth race in 19 starts this season and his 26th in 84 overall, earning $142,175. Paul Taylor trains the $12.30 winner.