They ran out of programs before the first race and track conditions were challenging after heavy overnight rains, but the mood was convivial and upbeat as the Quebec regional racing circuit made its first stop of the season in
the Eastern Townships town of Ayer's Cliff on Sunday afternoon.
A crowd of more than 300 lined the fences or sat in the shaded wooden grandstand of the local fairgrounds as trotters and pacers lined up behind the starter for 13 races.
"I think this passion, at the grassroots level, is something we can build on. Coming here, this is what I saw," said Quebec Jockey Club President Tony Infilise, who joined the likes of Hall of Fame horseman Benoit Cote at trackside.
With no other option since the collapse of racetrack operator Attractions Hippiques in 2009, the Quebec horseracing industry has gone back to its rural roots. Ayer's Cliff is one of five communities on this summer's regional circuit, the others being St. Hugues, St. Aime des Lacs, Mont-Joli and next Sunday's stop, Bedford.
The Ayer's Cliff program had total purses of $15,600, financed by Quebecers' internet wagering on races held at out-of-province tracks.
To view the charted results for the card of racing at Ayer's Cliff, click here.
(A Trot Insider exclusive by Paul Delean)