Statement by Ruidoso Downs Race Track Supporting Racing Commission Regarding Reported Positive Tests All American Day at Albuquerque Downs

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12

Ruidoso Downs, NM—Ruidoso Downs Owner Johnny Trotter and General Manager Rick Baugh offered the following statement today:

“We stand with the New Mexico Racing Commission as they continue their obligation to maintain the integrity of the sport of quarter horse racing. While every owner and trainer deserves their due process, Ruidoso Downs demands only the highest standards for our equine athletes and their caretakers. While the legal process continues, Toby Keeton and Heath Taylor along with anyone associated with the positive test are hereby indefinitely excluded from Ruidoso Downs. It is their complete disregard for our high standards of fairness and the future of quarter horse racing that leads us to this decision to ban any future participation. Cheating will not be tolerated at Ruidoso Downs now or in the future. We will await any actions that may come from our governing body, the New Mexico Racing Commission, before making any determination about previous Triple Crown Races including the 2024 All American Futurity.”

Ruidoso Downs supports the AQHA’s stance expressing, “appreciation of the regulators for their diligence in the pursuit. It is measures such as these that help maintain the integrity of the sport through the cases brought forward regarding the offenders as well as in deterring others from engaging in similar behavior.”