Until the decoupling hurdle came up, Stronach was pro-racing at Gulfstream, yes, because they had a casino. They wanted to further develop the property---not shut down the track and develop the property that the tracks sits on. There was talk about shutting down the backstretch (like what they did at the Meadowlands), however, that too had nothing to do with shutting down the track. When the access to capital markets issue came up, that's what brought decoupling to the forefront.
I have no idea what Stronach's true desire, motivation, and intention is. I don't think she was ever committed to racing like her dad was. But, once the capital markets and strategic partners say decouple, it's going to be mandatory. At the end of the day, it's the simple economic principle...highe st and best use. If she wants to close, they close. I think the horsemen need to figure out what assurances they can get, what they will accept and not accept, and decide whether or not they can make a deal. If not, folks, it's back to Hialeah! LOL.