Ruidoso Downs Horse Racing Track in New Mexico
The Ruidoso Downs Racetrack was first opened for racing in 1947 with a brilliant racing program and a fun-filled, eventful day. People flocked to the track to see finely bred horses striding for first place, their lean, muscled bodies stretching further and further until they cross the finish line to the applause and roar of the crowds. Wagers were placed and money was made and lost but most of all, the opening of Ruidoso Downs was a success. That success was further expanded upon in 1959 when the All American Futurity was made a regular feature at the track.
Since then the All American Futurity has become one of the most prestigious quarter horse races in the country – a reputation owing mainly to the fact that it is one of the richest quarter horse races. The All American Futurity has a guaranteed $1 million purse for first place and a total purse of over $2 million. Besides featuring a racing oval, Ruidoso Downs also has a dedicated quarter horse racetrack which measures 550 yards in length. The main track is seven furlongs long with a 660-foot homestretch, and together these tracks host some incredible racing. Ruidoso Downs racetrack is also home to the Ruidoso Futurity and the Rainbow Futurity which, when combined with the All American Futurity, constitute the Triple Crown of quarter horse racing – a not to be missed event!
As if all this wasn’t enough, Ruidoso Downs also features a casino. Added to the track in 1999, the Billy the Kid Casino features more than 300 slot machines where you can try your luck. The Casino is open daily and makes a great addition to the races. Races are run at Ruidoso Downs Racetrack and Casino every summer from Memorial Day in May to Labour Day in September.
