Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino canceled its Monday thoroughbred races because of a winter storm that soaked the track, marking the third straight day of cancellations. The storm started last Friday with rain and snow, leading to partial and full cancellations over the weekend. Director of Racing Dustin Dix stated the track needs more time to dry out before resuming operations.
A winter storm that began last Friday has disrupted horse racing at Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino in New Mexico. On Friday, four thoroughbred races were completed before the remaining five were canceled due to worsening weather. Saturday's nine quarter horse races and Sunday's nine thoroughbred races were entirely scrapped, and Monday's scheduled nine thoroughbred races followed suit as the track remained too wet for safe competition. The steady rain and snow from the storm have left the surface unworkable despite ongoing maintenance efforts. Dustin Dix, the track's Director of Racing, explained that crews are actively working on the track but require additional drying time. Training for horses is set to resume on Thursday, January 29, with live racing expected to return on Friday, January 30, featuring a nine-race card. Dix also noted that the track is exploring options to reschedule the canceled races later in the meet, which concludes on April 5. This series of cancellations highlights the challenges winter weather poses to outdoor racing schedules in the region.