Ruidoso Downs The races from 8–12 July 2020 were cancelled after flooding hit several areas of the infield, track and back straight.
The New Mexico route has been hit hard this summer. Last month, nearby wildfires destroyed homes, forests and brush areas, and in the weeks since, flooding from rainstorms has caused further devastation.
The “burn scar” from the wildfire has caused persistent flash flooding in the area due to the impeded absorption of rainfall. In addition to rainwater, debris has been carried down the Ruidoso River into communities, affecting homes and businesses around the city of Ruidoso.
Following previous flooding incidents, track maintenance crews have been working to clear mud and debris from the river that runs below the bend leading into the straight.
