Dresden Agricultural Society President Lucille Laprise and Hiawatha Horse Park operator Jim Henderson have been quoted in an article regarding the future of live horse racing at Dresden Raceway and the Hiawatha Horse Park.

Henderson has gone on the record as saying that the deadline for Ontario racetracks to present business plans to the province has been extended to February 28.

Henderson has been cited in a report by the Sarnia Observer as saying that the Ontario government has yet to reach an operational funding agreement with the Hiawatha Horse Park.

In regard to being able to cut a deal with the provincial government, Henderson was quoted, in part, as saying, “…We haven't been able to do anything.”

The article also states that the Dresden Agricultural Society is still in talks with Winrac Development Inc. – which operates live horse racing at Dresden Raceway – in regard to the 2014 racing season.

The report has quoted Laprise as saying, “Everything is going to be new for the Ag Society if we're lucky enough to apply for dates and lucky enough to secure dates.”

Laprise went on to say, “It's always a difficult time because it's something new and it's something you're not too familiar with.”

(With files from the Sarnia Observer)