Trot Insider today spoke with longtime Quebec horseman Pierre Touchette regarding yesterday's announcement that provincial racetrack operator Attractions Hippiques is ceasing all operations

. "We raced before they were here, and we will race after they are gone," he said.

The horseman told Trot Insider that yesterday's news was bittersweet to himself and other members of the province's well-rooted racing community. Touchette has been an active part of the Quebec racing scene for the last 50 years.

Given the delicate nature of the topic since such big changes have taken place already this week, Touchette was very selective of his words, as he wished not to offend many of the innocent individuals which have been directly impacted by the whole situation.

"I'm very optimistic right now -- we had to change direction," Touchette explained.

The horseman told Trot Insider that with the uncertainties in the provincial industry since Attractions Hippiques took over control, "the complete industry was held hostage. For us (Quebec horsepeople) it (Attractions Hippiques ceasing operations) was the only thing we could've hoped for.

"(Racing in Quebec) might be finished for them (Attractions Hippiques), but it's not finished for us," said Touchette.

To read an article today by The Montreal Gazette regarding the situation, click here.

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