On the afternoon of July 8, Ruidoso Downs was struck by a massive 20-foot wall of water rushing down Rio Ruidoso, affecting the area near the first and second turns of the New Mexico racecourse. Despite a 30-minute warning, the water’s force was overwhelming and unstoppable. Track manager Freddy Alvarez noted that while jockeys were told to evacuate to higher ground, the horses had to remain near the food stalls due to lack of space for relocation. The floodwaters, loaded with debris from mountains scorched by wildfires in 2024, created an unprecedented and devastating event for Ruidoso Downs.
As a result, summer racing events, including the major National Future Quarter Horse race originally scheduled for Ruidoso Downs, were moved to Downs in Albuquerque. Authorities have since called for investments in large holding ponds to better manage potential future floods. However, these measures were insufficient this time, as the flood destroyed homes, claimed at least three human lives, and killed one horse at the track. The mayor of Ruidoso village also reported multiple horse and pet deaths along the flood route. The river’s water level surged to over 20 feet, five feet higher than before.
Thankfully, many staff members rallied to care for and rescue horses, moving loose animals to higher ground and minimizing further losses. Jockey Edwin Escobedo, who was at the track when the flood struck, described the chaotic scene but praised the efforts of those who helped manage the disaster. Alvarez added that most horses survived, standing in chest-deep water but ultimately safe, despite the cold and wet conditions. Trainer Albert Franco reflected on the overwhelming speed of the flood and the calmness of those focused on protecting the horses.
Looking ahead, the risk of future flooding remains high due to the lack of vegetation and erosion control in the fire-ravaged Sacramento Mountains. Alvarez warned that these conditions could persist for another five years until the land recovers, with the burned ground turning almost asphalt-like and unable to support new plant growth.
Related: Update confirms one horse died after the severe flash flood at Ruidoso Downs, leading to a canceled meeting.
(This report was initially published by the Paulick Report on July 9, 2025.)
Fan Take: This devastating flood highlights the vulnerability of horse racing venues to extreme weather events, especially in fire-damaged regions. For fans and the industry, it underscores the urgent need for robust safety measures and infrastructure improvements to protect both horses and humans alike, ensuring the sport’s resilience in the face of climate challenges.
