Ruidoso Downs Race Track in New Mexico, which had just recently opened for the horse racing season, suffered extensive damage due to flooding on July 8. The floodwaters, stemming from burn scars left by the Salt and South Fork Fires, forced the cancellation of the entire racing season for the year. This marks the second consecutive year the track has been severely impacted by flooding, with last year’s damage also causing the relocation of the summer racing season’s final weeks to Albuquerque.

Despite the significant destruction, no injuries to staff or horsemen have been reported. However, the track is still assessing the full extent of the damage, and as of July 9, some horses remain missing. The situation remains fluid, and updates are being provided through local news sources such as the KOAT app.