Sustaining payments of $600 are due Wednesday, April 1 for several key stakes races scheduled for the 2026 meet for Ruidoso Downs, which will take place at The Downs of Albuquerque.

© Coady Media

By StallioneSearch

ALBUQUERQUE, NM–MARCH 25, 2026–Sustaining payments of $600 are due Wednesday, April 1 for several key stakes races scheduled for the 2026 meet for Ruidoso Downs, which will take place at The Downs at Albuquerque.

The Zia Quarter Horse Futurity (RG1) is one of the premier events on the calendar, restricted to New Mexico-bred 2-year-olds going 400 yards. Trials are scheduled for July 3, with the final set for July 19. The race is expected to carry an estimated purse of $375,000 with $45,000 added.

The Zia Quarter Horse Derby (RG2) is open to New Mexico-bred 3-year-olds at 400 yards, with trials slated for July 4 and the final on July 18. The race carries an estimated purse of $175,000 with $45,000 added.

Earlier in the meet, the Mountain Top Quarter Horse Futurity (RG2) will showcase New Mexico-bred juveniles at 350 yards. Trials are scheduled for May 29, followed by the final on June 14, with an estimated purse of $350,000 and $40,000 added.

The Mountain Top Quarter Horse Derby is set for New Mexico-bred 3-year-olds at 350 yards, with trials on May 30 and the final on June 13. The race is expected to offer an estimated purse of $150,000 with $25,000 added.

For additional information or to submit payments, contact Nomination Secretary Doris Alvarez at (575) 378-7316 or dalvarez@raceruidoso.com.

• 2026 Mountain Top QH Derby
• 2026 Mountain Top QH Futurity
• 2026 Zia QH Derby
• 2026 Zia QH Futurity

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