For the second year in a row, the All American Futurity — one of the most prestigious events in quarter horse racing — is taking place in Albuquerque, not at its traditional home in Ruidoso Downs. The change comes as a result of catastrophic flood damage caused by the Salt and South Fork burn scars, which have rendered the Ruidoso Downs racetrack unusable for the second consecutive year.
Javier Rodriguez, the owner of race contender Political Twist, understands the emotional and physical toll that comes with preparing for the Futurity. “This isn’t an easy job — you have to really love these horses,” said Rodriguez. “For those of us in the quarter horse world, the All American is everything. It’s our Kentucky Derby.”
The trials to determine the finalists for the All American Futurity are set to begin Monday and will continue through Tuesday at Albuquerque Downs. The 10 fastest horses — five from each day — will qualify for the final race on Labor Day. This year’s winner will take home a share of a $3 million purse.
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Although the move from Ruidoso is disappointing for many, including race officials, there’s strong determination to bring the event back in the future. Rick Baugh, general manager of Ruidoso Downs Racetrack & Casino, emphasized the importance of the venue in an interview from July. “Being unable to reopen isn’t acceptable. We generate about $160 million in economic impact, and we will return,” Baugh asserted.
Canceling the Futurity altogether would have serious implications for the quarter horse industry, affecting not just racing but also breeding, training, and sales.
Despite the venue change, Rodriguez remains hopeful for Political Twist’s chances. “We skipped the Rainbow Futurity to focus on the All American. Then the flooding changed everything, but we’re here in Albuquerque and ready to compete,” he said.
Rodriguez is no stranger to this level of competition. In 2007, he won the All American Futurity, and last year, his horse FDD Dreams placed third. Now, he’s hoping Political Twist will deliver another memorable performance.
