With 'diligent' approach, New Mexico's Ruidoso Downs set to race

After weeks of stay at home orders and COVID-19 precautionary measures, the decision has been made that horses will be admitted to the Ruidoso Downs barn area on Friday before live racing starts as scheduled on May 22.

According to the track's announcement, fans and owners will not be permitted on site, as until further notice only New Mexico Racing Commission-licensed training staff, jockeys and NMRC track officials will be allowed.

Ruidoso Downs has developed an operational protocol for barn area occupants and will enforce those efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by requiring daily temperature and health screenings. Everyone will also be required to wear a face covering.

Trainers will bring in horses through an appointment calendar in order to throttle the number of horses coming in at one time and to allow for proper social distancing while unloading.

“We have taken the first step towards a recovery, and we are being very diligent about our protocols," said Jeff True, Ruidoso Downs' president and general manager. "Our first priority is providing a safe environment for everyone, and that will require everyone’s cooperation. We are very grateful to Governor Lujan Grisham for the opportunity to get started.”

A date has not been set for when fans will be allowed to attend the races as there is currently a Public Health Order in place that limits mass gatherings. This directive will expire on May 15, and Ruidoso Downs will work in accordance with both state and local governments on how to re-open to the public.

Opening weekend, with Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse races, runs from Friday through Monday, Memorial Day. First post time is 3 p.m. ET.