February 14, 2006 – Quebec’s cycling community was sad to learn on February 10th of the death of René “˜Flat-top’ Paquin. The 86-year-old former competitor was inducted into the FQSC’S Temple de la renommée (Hall of Fame) in 1988 as a builder — a category which distinguishes commitment and contributions to Quebec cycling. As a competitor Paquin won the now defunct Montréal-St-Jérôme race, yet it was his contributions as a organizer where he made his mark.

Paquin was the Master of Ceremonies at the classic Québec-Montréal, from 1956 to 1974, one of the most prestigious races in North America. Paquin also organized no less than eighteen “˜Six Days of Track’ race events from 1963 to 1976 across Quebec and Canada. “˜Flat-top’ also directed the Tour de la Nouvelle-France, a pro cycling race which was staged in 1968.

Even after his career as race organizer was over, Paquin still came out to watch and support Quebec racing — notably Les Mardis a Lachine — where he was more than happy to share his experiences and love of cycling with the crowds.