Horse racing season in Ruidoso, New Mexico typically begins in mid-May and concludes in early September. During this time, the Ruidoso Downs Race Track hosts a variety of races, including the All American Futurity, which is considered one of the most prestigious quarter horse races in the world. In addition to the races, the track also offers a variety of other entertainment options, including live music, food, and drinks.
Ruidoso Downs Racetrack Season Dates
Horse racing season at Ruidoso Downs Racetrack is a highly anticipated event for horse racing enthusiasts and locals alike. The track offers a thrilling and competitive racing experience, and the season attracts top jockeys, trainers, and horses from around the country.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key dates related to the horse racing season at Ruidoso Downs Racetrack:
Season Opening
- The horse racing season at Ruidoso Downs Racetrack typically begins in late May.
- The exact opening date may vary slightly from year to year, so it’s recommended to check the official website or contact the track for the most up-to-date information.
Season Length
- The racing season at Ruidoso Downs Racetrack usually lasts for around four months.
- The season typically concludes in late September or early October.
Racing Days and Times
- Live racing is typically held four days a week, from Wednesday through Saturday.
- The first race usually starts at 1 pm.
- The number of races per day can vary, but there are typically around 8 to 10 races scheduled on each racing day.
Table of Season Dates (Sample)
| Year | Season Opening | Season Conclusion |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 26 | September 23 |
| 2024 | May 25 | September 22 |
| 2025 | May 24 | September 21 |
Major Horse Racing Events in Ruidoso
Experience the thrilling world of horse racing in the picturesque mountain town of Ruidoso, New Mexico. The Ruidoso Downs Race Track and Billy the Kid Casino host an exciting schedule of races throughout the year, showcasing world-class equine athletes and attracting a passionate crowd of racing enthusiasts.
The racing season typically begins in late May and extends through early September, offering an array of races with varying distances and purse amounts. Here are the major horse racing events that you won’t want to miss in Ruidoso:
- All American Futurity: The richest Quarter Horse race in the world, featuring 2-year-old Quarter Horses competing for a purse of over $3 million.
- Ruidoso Derby: A prestigious race for 3-year-old Quarter Horses, offering a purse of over $1 million.
- Ruidoso Oaks: The counterpart to the Ruidoso Derby, this race is exclusively for 3-year-old Quarter Horse fillies, with a purse of over $1 million.
- Rainbow Futurity: A prestigious race for 2-year-old Paint and Appaloosa Quarter Horses, with a purse of over $300,000.
- Rainbow Derby: The counterpart to the Rainbow Futurity, this race is for 3-year-old Paint and Appaloosa Quarter Horses, with a purse of over $200,000.
In addition to these major events, Ruidoso Downs hosts a variety of supporting races and special events, providing entertainment and excitement throughout the racing season. Check the official Ruidoso Downs website for the latest race schedule and other upcoming events.
Best Time to Visit Ruidoso for Horse Racing
Ruidoso Downs Race Track in Ruidoso, New Mexico, offers a thrilling horse racing experience, drawing enthusiasts from across the nation. The racing season typically runs from May through September, with live races held three days a week: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Special events and stakes races are also scheduled throughout the season.
Here’s a closer look at the best time to visit Ruidoso for horse racing:
Summer (June-August)
- Peak racing season with the most race days and stakes races.
- Enjoy warm weather and outdoor dining options.
- Expect larger crowds and higher hotel rates.
Spring (May) and Fall (September)
- Fewer race days but still plenty of action.
- More comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Lower hotel rates and more availability.
Special Events
- All American Futurity and Ruidoso Derby (Labor Day weekend): Two of the most prestigious races in Quarter Horse racing.
- Rainbow Futurity and Rainbow Derby (August): Highly anticipated races for Thoroughbreds.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
| Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season. |
| Tickets | Purchase tickets online or at the track. Season passes offer significant savings. |
| Dress Code | Smart casual attire is recommended. No shorts or tank tops. |
| Dining | Enjoy fine dining at the trackside restaurant or casual options at food trucks. |
| Entertainment | Attend concerts, visit the casino, or go shopping in Ruidoso Village. |
When Does Horse Racing Start in Ruidoso, NM?
The Ruidoso Downs Race Track in Ruidoso, New Mexico, typically begins its racing season in May and runs through Labor Day weekend in September. Live horse racing is held every day of the week, except Tuesdays, during the meet.
Tips for Attending Horse Races in Ruidoso
* **Dress code:** While there is no formal dress code, it is customary to dress nicely when attending horse races.
* **Seating:** General admission tickets allow access to the grandstand, while reserved seating and private suites are available for an additional fee.
* **Food and drinks:** A variety of food and beverage options are available at the track, including concessions, restaurants, and bars.
* **Betting:** You can place bets on horse races at the track’s betting windows or through online platforms.
* **Entertainment:** In addition to the races, Ruidoso Downs Race Track offers live music, special events, and a casino.
Season Schedule
| Month | Start Date | End Date |
|---|---|---|
| May | 1 | 31 |
| June | 1 | 30 |
| July | 1 | 31 |
| August | 1 | 31 |
| September | 1 | 5 (Labor Day) |
That concludes our little expedition into the thrilling world of horse racing in New Mexico. As the hooves pound the dirt and the jockeys charge toward the finish line, remember to soak in all the excitement and energy. We extend a warm farewell, and promise to keep you posted on all the latest horse racing updates. Head back to our page for more thrilling stories, and don’t forget to mark your calendars for the first race. Until then, we bid you a fond farewell. Thanks for reading!