The latest updates on Ruidoso race track and the recovery efforts following the recent Ruidoso flooding. Ruidoso Downs Race Track and Casino, recently reopened after 2024 floods, Ruidoso race track faced another devastating disaster as raging floodwaters once again trapped horses and people, devastating the facility.
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A Week of Devastation From Flash Floods
July 10 Update: We have received verified reports that one horse has died from the Ruidoso race track flooding, with the mayor of the village of Ruidoso reporting multiple deaths of horses and pets who were in the path of the extreme flash flood. One to two horses housed on Ruidoso race track are unaccounted for while 10 were treated for minor wounds. Our heartfelt prayers go out to this community as they begin to put their lives back together from this tragic natural disaster.
July 8, 2025: Ruidoso, New Mexico, community was struck by devastating flash flooding that caused extensive damage to homes, businesses, and the recently re-opened Ruidoso Downs Race Track. Torrential rains overwhelmed the area’s drainage infrastructure, with water levels rising rapidly and leaving residents little time to prepare. The Rio Ruidoso river rose to a record-breaking 20.24 feet, according to the National Weather Service, surpassing the previous record of 15.86 feet reported by KOAT. In an alarming surge, the river’s water level climbed 19 feet in just 30 minutes, triggering devastating flash floods that caused significant damage and loss of life.
This tragic event comes just five days after the catastrophic flood hit Kerrville, Texas, highlighting the growing threat of severe weather across the Southwest. Both disasters were fueled by intense rainfall over a short period leaving little to no time for evacuations.
This article examines the damage at Ruidoso Downs Race Track and the broader implications for the region moving forward.
Ruidoso Downs and the Threat of Flooding
Ruidoso Downs Race Track has faced many challenges over the years, with flooding being a persistent and destructive issue. Located near the Rio Ruidoso, the track has been vulnerable to flash flooding caused by heavy storms. However, recent years have brought unprecedented damage, disrupting operations and threatening the livelihoods of the community that depends on it.
The 2024 Flood: A Major Setback
In the summer of 2024, Ruidoso Downs endured one of its worst floods in history. Persistent storms caused the Rio Ruidoso to swell dramatically, reaching record-breaking levels of 20 to 20.24 feet. Floodwaters inundated the track and its facilities, submerging the infield, stables, training zones, and jockeys' quarters. The devastation forced the abrupt cancellation of the racing season, leaving horse owners, trainers, jockeys, and hundreds of employees without work.
To mitigate the losses and salvage a portion of the 2024 racing season, several races were relocated to Albuquerque. This decision was necessitated not only by the catastrophic flooding but also by a series of fires that had plagued the Ruidoso area earlier in the year. These dual disasters disrupted operations, leaving Ruidoso Downs unable to host live racing for the remainder of 2024. The move to Albuquerque provided a temporary solution, allowing some events to proceed while supporting the racing community during this challenging time.
The destruction rippled through the local economy. Vendors, race organizers, and small businesses that relied on the racing season saw their incomes decline overnight. Despite the financial strain, the Ruidoso Downs community came together, determined to rebuild. Repair crews worked for months, addressing structural damage and restoring the track to working order.
Reopened in May 2025: A Symbol of Resilience
After 120 days of reconstruction, Ruidoso Downs Race Track reopened in May 2025. The reopening symbolized hope for the local community and the equestrian industry. Financial aid from state agencies and racing organizations played a critical role in rebuilding the track, while local groups ensured horses and caretakers had access to necessary resources during recovery.
The track underwent significant upgrades, including enhanced drainage systems designed to reduce future flood risks. These improvements aimed to protect the facilities and ensure the safety of both horses and people, reflecting the community's commitment to long-term resilience.
The reopening brought life back to Ruidoso Downs. Racing events resumed, jobs returned, and the local economy began recovering. For many, it felt like the start of a new chapter for a track that had faced incredible adversity.
The 2025 Flood: Another Blow
However, just months after reopening, disaster struck again. On June 8 persistent storms triggered record-breaking flash flooding, inundating the track and its facilities. Despite the newly installed drainage systems, the sheer volume of water overwhelmed the area, causing extensive damage. The infield, jockeys' quarters, and other key facilities were submerged again. Videos shared on social media showed the emergency unfolding, and also the devastation, while news stations reported on the severity of the situation.
The timing couldn’t have been worse. Many horse owners, trainers, and staff are still recovering from the 2024 disaster, and the new damage will no doubt deepened the struggles. Operations are currently halted, impacting everyone from race organizers to local businesses and residents.
This morning, (July 9) Ruidoso Downs Race Track and Casino took to their Facebook page to address the situation and express gratitude to the community. Their post read, "We want to start this morning by saying Thank you to all that have reached out and checked in on our property, team members and animals. Due to the severity of the flood waters, we are currently assessing all damage to best determine next steps. Safety is our top priority and what we will focus on today as we work towards a plan. Our thoughts & prayers are with all those affected and serve as a reminder that we are stronger together. #ruidosostrong We will continue to post on social media and our website as details come available."
This message stresses their commitment to safety and recovery, while reinforcing the resilience of the community during this difficult time. At this time there have not been reports of any horses being lost to the flash flooding but we will continue to share updates on this tragic disaster.
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