Emulation (noun)

1. Imitation of the behavior or actions of another, typically in an effort to equal or surpass them.
2. An instance of this, or the desire or ambition to equal or surpass another.

Origin:

From latin emulatio, from emulare "to rival, imitate".

Examples:

1. He was the object of emulation by his peers.
2. The company"s success was the result of emulation of the industry leader"s strategy.
3. The new product was designed to emulate the features of the popular brand.
4. His emulation of the great actor was impressive.
5. The emulation of the rival team's playing style led to their success.