Water covers the infield and racing surface at Ruidoso Downs after severe flooding from a sudden storm shut down the rest of the 2025 racing season.

© Courtesy Facebook

RUIDOSO DOWNS, NM–JULY 9, 2025–For the second time in less than a year, severe flooding has forced Ruidoso Downs in New Mexico to cancel its race meet.

A powerful storm on Tuesday sent runoff rushing down nearby mountains, inundating the racetrack and stable area. The flooding was so intense that the infield and racing surface were submerged, and water briefly reached the roof of the single-story jockeys’ room.

Track owner Johnny Trotter confirmed Wednesday that the damage is too extensive to continue. “We can’t run at Ruidoso again this year,” he said. Track management is considering whether to relocate some races, including the prestigious All American Futurity, or return nomination fees to owners.

The 2025 meet, which started in late May and was to run through early September, featured Quarter Horse racing and included major Rainbow series stakes with purses up to $1 million this weekend.

Tuesday’s flood resulted from a monsoonal storm that dumped 2–3 inches of rain on areas already scarred by wildfires. The Ruidoso River crested at a record 20.2 feet, surpassing last year’s high mark. Water poured through the infield, covering barns and the winner’s circle.

Although the track recently improved drainage and widened the river channel, the measures couldn’t handle this storm’s severity. Videos posted online showed fast-moving water in the stable area and horses standing in knee-deep water. Some were moved to higher stalls at a nearby sales pavilion.

The surrounding village of Ruidoso suffered significant damage too, with homes destroyed and cars swept away. Local officials confirmed that three people—a man and two children—died in the flood. Emergency crews performed dozens of rescues.

Trainer Marc Jungers described the scene as terrifying, saying water rose too quickly to move horses immediately. His 50-horse stable was eventually relocated to safe stalls, thanks to help from community members and volunteers. “That’s the way people are,” he said. “They help when you need it.”

Trainer Chris O’Dell’s barn escaped major damage, though water reached three feet deep around it. He plans to send some horses to California to continue training. Jungers hopes to move others to a nearby training center in Tularosa.