The parking lot and grandstand were full more than an hour before first race post time at Hippodrome 3R Sunday afternoon, in anticipation of Quebec's signature racing event - the Prix D'Ete.
The 10-race program marks the return of the Prix D'Ete after a long absence. It also signifies a major moment for horse racing in the province of Quebec.
"It's always nice to come back and say hello to all of my friends," said driver Daniel Dube from in the paddock. "After they shut everything down, I'm surprised they got everything reopened. It's really good. Everybody here loves the horses."
"It's nice to be back home and see people I haven't seen in a long time," said driver Yannick Gingras, moments after arriving at the track. "It's still a struggle for horsepeople here, but it's really great to see an event like this back home. And nice to see my family.
"This is one of the best places to race horses," Gingras said of his native province. "I just wish the government would realize and show some more support."
Gingras drives Sunfire Blue Chip in the Prix D'Ete. "I think he's the best horse in the field but I've raced here enough to know the eight hole is tough."
For Jody Jamieson, making his first start in Trois Rivieres, the experience is a good one. "I've never been here so this is pretty cool," said Jamieson. "If we can support the industry and get the government to support the industry in Quebec, it would be great for all Canadian racing."
Denis St. Pierre, a Quebec native, is excited about the race. "It's very important," said St. Pierre. "This should bring a lot of publicity for Quebec racing. It's been very hard for all my friends in horse racing.
"Now, some are getting back into it a little bit, maybe getting a baby or one or two horses. It will come back slowly."
To view entries for Sunday's card of harness racing, click the following link: Sunday Entries – Hippodrome 3R.