from the Quebec Jockey Club

Trois-Rivieres, PQ — Pompano Park racing fans were treated to a unique live interview in the winner’s circle when visiting guest Vincent Trudel, the general manager of the Hippodrome 3R racetrack, located in Trois-Rivières, Quebec, spoke with track publicist John Berry.

Trudel spoke about how the horsemen had formed the Quebec Jockey Club and took over Hippodrome 3R from bankruptcy and within two years has revamped the racing program that will feature a 50 percent increase in purses in 2014.

He talked about the area the track is located, between Montreal and Quebec City, how the track is now one of the fastest half- mile ovals in the sport and spoke about the track’s renewal of the Prix D’Ete race on Sept. 21. With a purse of C$200,000 it will be the richest pacing event for 4-year-olds in North America this year. Trudel reminded horsemen that the first nomination payment must be made by March 15.

After the interview, Trudel was taken on a ride to view the first race from the Hummer H2 starting gate at Pompano Park, which he said was amazing.

“It had such a clear view of the field,” Trudel said. “And being a Hummer you know that it will travel well through any rain, mud or snow. It was very impressive but I was also told it was not good at gas mileage, I think maybe nine miles per gallon.”

Trudel then toured the racetrack and the casino which he said was also very impressive.

To see a video of the interview, click here.