Ruidoso Downs canceled races 8-12 July 20 after flooding poured into parts of the infield, racetrack, and backstretch areas.
The New Mexico track has been hard hit this summer. Last month, nearby wildfires ravaged homes, forests, and brush areas, and in the weeks since, flooding from rainstorms has wreaked havoc.
Wildfire “burn scars” have caused repeated flash floods in the area due to hindered rainfall absorption. In addition to rainwater, debris has been carried down the Rio Ruidoso into the community, impacting homes and businesses around the city of Ruidoso.
After past incidents of flooding, track maintenance crews have worked to clear mud and debris from the river that runs underneath the turn that leads into the backstretch.
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