Official Website of the Ruidoso Valley Chamber of Commerce, Ruidoso New Mexico Ruidoso, New Mexico. Whether you enjoy world-class horse racing, museums, the performing arts, golfing, fishing, or have a special interest in our fascinating western history, we have everything to make your vacation unforgettable. Our skiing is superb during the winter months, but with four distinct but delightfully mild seasons, we are a perfect choice for year-round enjoyment. Image copyright by Mark Doth
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Horse Racing Information


Some of the best quarter horses in the country race at Ruidoso Downs.
Photo by Bill Pitt
Who would imagine that the most dramatic moments in Quarter horse racing take place in a scenic mountaintop location in south central New Mexico? Yet this is exactly what happens, year after year, at the famous Ruidoso Downs Race Track and Casino!

Set at an altitude of 7,000 feet above sea level, the best of the best in Quarter Horse racing vie every year to win the famed All American Futurity. With a purse value of $2 million, the winner of  this legendary race will reward his or her owners a cool $1 million prize. From starting gate to finish, this quarter mile race takes just over 20 seconds to complete.  Not a bad hourly wage if you do the math.

Forty-six horses have been able to say they won the industry’s biggest race. On Labor Day of this year another name will be added to this famed list of Quarter Horses that have conquered the mountain and become an instant millionaire.

But there’s more as Ruidoso Downs Race Track & Casino offers not only the best Quarter Horses in training but also boasts a resurgent Thoroughbred industry that is starting to make great strides on a national level as well.


2008 Ruidoso Downs Racing Calendar
(click on image for larger size)

Racing officially begins every year on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend and concludes on Labor Day.

If you need something faster, let Billy the Kid Casino and its western themed casino serve as a place to have a great time. Located next to the Race Track, the casino is open year round.  Visitors will enjoy nightly promotions, large variety of slot machines and delicious food. Where else can you have such a great time in one place?

Call 575-378-4431 for more information on the happenings at Ruidoso Downs Race Track & Casino.
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