RUIDOSO DOWNS — May 1 is the earliest horses and horseman can arrive at Ruidoso Downs Race Track. But for now, the plan is to start racing as scheduled on May 22.
A statement from All American Ruidoso Downs, LLC, the partnership that operates the track and casino, on Thursday said the intent is based on Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s “stay at home” order to slow the spread of coronavirus. National guidelines have extended restrictive social distancing guidelines through April 30.
“The May 1st restart date requires that horsemen will need to find alternative locations for qualifying works in April. Our goal continues to be to prepare for racing at Ruidoso Downs as scheduled on May 22nd. However, if viral conditions warrant a further delay, we will announce as soon as it is known and will make any race date changes that are warranted for the health, safety, and welfare of all concerned; including the horses,” said Jeff True, general manager, in a statement. “As we have said all along, the health and safety of our community and our racing industry has to be the top priority.”
