Ruidoso Downs Relocates Horse Races to Albuquerque Due to Wildfire Flooding Risk

Ruidoso Downs Relocates Horse Races to Albuquerque Due to Wildfire Flooding Risk

Ruidoso Downs Racetrack in New Mexico has made the decision to relocate its horse races to Albuquerque due to the risk of flooding caused by recent wildfires in the area. An engineering study conducted by JE Fuller revealed that even moderate rainfall could pose a serious flooding threat to the race track. The South Fork and Salt wildfires have heightened the concern for potential flooding at Ruidoso Downs.

As a precautionary measure, Ruidoso Downs has opted to move its racing schedule to the Downs at Albuquerque. The 2026 NM Bred sale and the Super Select sale will still take place at the Ruidoso Downs Sales Pavilion as scheduled. Despite the relocation of the races, Ruidoso Downs has assured that its Casino and Cantina will remain open for visitors to enjoy.

The decision to move the horse races to Albuquerque comes in response to the risk of flooding posed by the recent wildfires in the area. Ruidoso Downs is taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of its facilities and participants by relocating the races to a safer location. Visitors can still experience the excitement of horse racing at the Downs at Albuquerque while the Ruidoso Downs Sales Pavilion continues to host important sales events.