New Mexico is home to a unique and exciting horse racing culture. Horse racing has been a part of New Mexico’s history for centuries, and is still a popular pastime today. There are a number of horse racing tracks throughout the state, each offering a variety of events and activities for fans of the sport. In this article, we’ll explore how many horse race tracks there are in New Mexico, as well as the different types of events they host.
History of Horse Racing in New Mexico
Horse racing has been a part of New Mexico’s culture since the 16th century. The first known horse race in the state occurred in 1598, when Spanish settlers held a race to celebrate the founding of Santa Fe. Over the centuries, horse racing has remained a popular activity in New Mexico and continues to draw large crowds to the tracks today.
Types of Horse Races at New Mexico Tracks
New Mexico horse racing tracks host a variety of events for fans of the sport. Some of the most popular events include:
- Thoroughbred Racing – Thoroughbred racing is the most popular type of horse racing in New Mexico. This type of racing is usually held on dirt tracks, and the horses typically race at distances of 1-3 miles.
- Quarter Horse Racing – Quarter horse racing is a type of short-distance racing. The horses typically race on a quarter-mile track, and the races are usually over in less than one minute.
- Mixed Breed Racing – Mixed breed racing is a type of racing where horses of different breeds compete against each other. It is a popular event in New Mexico, as it allows competitors to showcase the skills of their horses.
- Harness Racing – Harness racing is a type of racing where horses pull a two-wheeled cart called a sulky. Harness racing is very popular in New Mexico, and is often held in conjunction with other events.
- Rodeo Racing – Rodeo racing is a type of racing where horses race around a track while riders perform stunts on their backs. This type of racing is popular in New Mexico, and is often held in conjunction with other events.
Notable Horse Racing Tracks in New Mexico
There are a number of horse racing tracks throughout New Mexico, each offering its own unique experience. Some of the most notable tracks in the state include:
- SunRay Park and Casino – SunRay Park and Casino is located in Farmington, New Mexico. It is one of the most popular horse racing tracks in the state, and hosts a variety of events throughout the year. SunRay Park also features a casino and several restaurants.
- The Downs at Albuquerque – The Downs at Albuquerque is located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It is one of the oldest horse racing tracks in the state, and hosts a variety of events throughout the year. The Downs at Albuquerque also features a casino and several restaurants.
- Ruidoso Downs Race Track – Ruidoso Downs Race Track is located in Ruidoso, New Mexico. It is a popular track for both thoroughbred and quarter horse racing, and hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Ruidoso Downs Race Track also features a casino and several restaurants.
- Zia Park Racetrack – Zia Park Racetrack is located in Hobbs, New Mexico. It is a popular track for both thoroughbred and quarter horse racing, and hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Zia Park Racetrack also features a casino and several restaurants.
How Many Horse Race Tracks are There in New Mexico?
There are currently four horse racing tracks in New Mexico: SunRay Park and Casino, The Downs at Albuquerque, Ruidoso Downs Race Track, and Zia Park Racetrack. Each of these tracks offers a unique experience for fans of the sport, hosting a variety of events and activities throughout the year.
New Mexico Racing Commission
The New Mexico Racing Commission is responsible for overseeing horse racing in the state. The Commission regulates the activities at all of the tracks in the state, ensuring that all events are conducted safely and fairly. The Commission also certifies tracks and sets rules and regulations for the sport.
Horse Racing Events in New Mexico
New Mexico hosts a variety of horse racing events throughout the year. These events include the New Mexico State Fair, the New Mexico Classic, the SunRay Park Quarter Horse Championship, the Ruidoso Downs Derby, the Zia Park Derby, and the Sunland Park Futurity.
Conclusion
Horse racing is a popular activity in New Mexico, with fans flocking to the tracks throughout the year. There are currently four horse racing tracks in the state: SunRay Park and Casino, The Downs at Albuquerque, Ruidoso Downs Race Track, and Zia Park Racetrack. Each of these tracks offers a unique experience for fans of the sport, hosting a variety of events and activities throughout the year. The New Mexico Racing Commission is responsible for overseeing horse racing in the state, ensuring that all events are conducted safely and fairly.
References
- New Mexico Horse Racing. (n.d.). Retrieved April 28, 2021, from https://www.visitnewmexico.com/horse-racing/
- New Mexico Horse Racing Tracks. (n.d.). Retrieved April 28, 2021, from https://www.horseracingnation.com/tracks/New_Mexico
- New Mexico Racing Commission. (n.d.). Retrieved April 28, 2021, from https://www.nmrc.state.nm.us/
- Horse Racing Events in New Mexico. (n.d.). Retrieved April 28, 2021, from https://www.horseracingnation.com/events/state/New_Mexico