Former horsemen's association president: Gulfstream never gave us chance to hash it out

Описание: Joe Orseno -- a trainer of 47 years and who stepped down in January as president of the horsemen's association representing Gulfstream Park's owners and trainers -- told a Florida Senate committee hearing on decoupling that Gulfstream Park never presented the opportunity to seriously discuss a path forward that works for the track owners, horsemen and the future of horse racing in South Florida. Orseno trained for Frank Stronach - father of current Gulfstream owner Belinda Stronach - when horsemen entered into an agreement with the track to incorporate slots machines. "All they asked is that we supported them fully," Orseno said. "The horsemen as a group jumped in with both feet… Maybe we should all think about sitting in a closed room and hashing it out. Nope, that’s never come up. If we could do that, maybe smarter minds would prevail and we’ll be able to move forward in this case and come up with a good solution. They need to keep the horsemen part of it, and horsemen part of the ownership part of Gulfstream. And keep the Canadian industry out of it, and the person they send down to be their hitman. Let’s talk to some people who really care about racing and maybe we can go forward and have a better life for all of us."
Video courtesy the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Association. Media outlets are welcome to use this video (all or portions) for their coverage of this issue.