And, They're Off! ...at the Ruidoso Downs Race Track
Open Through Labor Day, 2005
Written by Chuck Duncan • Photograpy by Doug McAlister
“AND, THEY’RE OFF!”
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After a long winter the ponies are back and racing at the world famous Ruidoso Downs race track. Memorial Day, May 27th marked the opening of the 2005 race season and this year is off to a great start. Ruidoso Downs is the favored destination for the Southwest’s sporting crowd, including both celebrities and horse racing’s elite who share an enthusiasm for horses and easily mingle with us regular folks.
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Known for it’s fast-paced action and world-class racing, the “Downs” continues to draw the best horses and horsemen around. Quarter Horse racing has built the reputation for the track over the decades, but don’t forget the thoroughbred feature races, they are as good as it gets as well.
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Of course, no trip to the track would be complete without enjoying some of the local fare and the “Downs” delivers with excellent food and beverage. Our favorite is a “Downs dog” and a cold beer…best enjoyed standing at the rail with a winning ticket in pocket. The Turf Club offers excellent table service and a great vantage point from which to view the action …and if you’ve ever wondered why horse racing is called the sport of Kings ask someone with a seat in the private Jockey Club if you can use it for a day.
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After a day at “Ruidoso Downs Race Track," stroll over to the “Billy the Kid” casino located right next to the track and try your luck on the slots or poker machines. As an added attraction, “Billy the Kid” serves up a wondrous buffet that will keep you coming back for more.
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Don’t forget to take in some of the special events scheduled for 2005 at the track, here are some highlights for June.
June 12 Ruidoso QH Derby Finals
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June 12 Ruidoso QH Juvenile
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June 12 Ruidoso QH Futurity Final
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June 18 First Lady Handicap
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June 18 Ruidoso TB Sale Futurity Final
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June 19 Ruidoso QH Sale Futurity Final
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June 19 Bayer Legend Derby
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June 25 Aspen Cup
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| July 3: And watch for Pat Green to perform at the Ruidoso Downs concert series on July 3! |
TIP: Book your "lodging" early for your next visit as the Village fills up in two shakes of a horse’s tail this time of year!
If you haven't done so already, be sure to sign up for our July 2005 Spring GoENewsletter Issue to be delivered to your computer...all following monthly issues will arrive too.
Sign up via e-mail at: info@goenewsletter.com (simply type in "Subscribe" in the subject box)
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