Flooding Devastates Ruidoso Downs Racetrack Once More, Causing Heavy Damage
Devastating Floods Strike Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico
In a tragic turn of events, Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico, was hit by flash floods on July 10, 2025, causing significant damage and loss of life. The floods, driven by heavy monsoon rains over burn scar areas, resulted in a rapid rise of the Rio Ruidoso, reaching a record 20 feet, five feet above previous highs [1][4].
The impact on the horse racing industry was severe. The Quarter Horse racetrack at Ruidoso Downs was severely flooded, forcing the cancellation of the entire 2025 racing season [4]. The prestigious $3 million All American Futurity, a race dating back to 1959, was relocated to Albuquerque for the first time in its history [1].
Sadly, the floods claimed the lives of three individuals, including two children, and one horse [1]. The floodwaters swept away homes, affected businesses, and left several horses unaccounted for [1]. Social media footage shows the racetrack submerged in several feet of water [1].
The Village of Ruidoso has been actively responding to the crisis, setting up emergency shelters, providing counseling services, and coordinating with multiple agencies for ongoing rescue and recovery efforts [1][3]. Mayor Lynn Crawford expressed deep sorrow and ensured the community's commitment to recovery, but the devastating loss and damage have interrupted normal life and business [1][4].
Looking ahead, while specific future plans for the racetrack post-flooding have not been detailed, the community is focused on recovery and support for affected families. The New Mexico Racing Commission, led by Executive Director Izzy Trejo, is committed to supporting the horse racing industry and Ruidoso in the best way possible [1].
The devastating wildfires of last summer destroyed vegetation that normally helps absorb rainfall and hold soil in place, increasing the volume and speed of floodwaters. This is the second time since the summer of 2024 that floods have forced Ruidoso Downs to close [1].
In summary:
| Aspect | Details | |--------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Fatalities | 3 confirmed (ages 4, 7, and 40-50 years) | | Flood Severity | Rio Ruidoso reached 20 feet, 5 feet above previous record | | Damages | Homes swept away, racetrack flooded, businesses affected | | Racing Season | Entire 2025 season at Ruidoso Downs canceled due to flooding impact | | Emergency Response | Swift-water rescues, shelters opened, counseling available | | Future Plans | Recovery underway; no specific racetrack reopening timeline announced yet |
The floods mark a significant interruption to the Ruidoso racing community and the wider village, with ongoing recovery efforts for lives lost and infrastructure damage [1][4].
The flooding at Ruidoso Downs, New Mexico, caused the cancellation of the entire 2025 racing season, leading to the relocation of the All American Futurity race to Albuquerque.
Ruidoso Downs Quarter Horse racetrack has been closed due to severe flooding, and the racetrack remains submerged in several feet of water as a result.
The floods have claimed the lives of three individuals, including two children and one horse, and many homes, businesses, and horses have been affected.
Rescue and recovery efforts are ongoing in the Village of Ruidoso, with emergency shelters, counseling services, and coordination with multiple agencies taking place.
