MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

May 2025

Summer is just around the corner, and after enduring last summer’s devastating fires and floods, our resilient community is poised for a spectacular season ahead. I’m thrilled that the beloved Ruidoso Downs Race Track will be reopening on Memorial Day Weekend, bringing back this cherished tradition alongside numerous exciting summer events planned throughout our village. I hope you make plans to attend the races on opening weekend and show your support for all that they've done to bring racing back to the mountain this year!

We have had a couple of big announcements in the past few weeks from IRONMAN and XTERRA. Both entities have announced that they will bring multiple-year events to Ruidoso, starting with the XTERRA Gold Series event in August 2025. After the first event, Ruidoso will host the XTERRA World Championships in 2026, 2027, and 2028. The inaugural IRONMAN 70.3 event is scheduled for July 2026, it will be followed by events in 2027 and 2028. This is a tremendous honor for our mountain community and a testament to the natural beauty and challenging terrain that make our area so special. We look forward to welcoming elite athletes and outdoor enthusiasts from around the globe to experience our trails, our hospitality, and the unique spirit of Ruidoso.

These multi-year commitments from top-tier brands will not only showcase our incredible outdoor recreation opportunities but also bring significant economic benefits to local businesses and residents, estimated at $12 million per event. We’re ready to put Ruidoso on the world stage as a premier destination for outdoor adventure sports.

As you travel throughout the village, you'll notice recovery efforts continuing in full force. The progress we're making together is visible everywhere, and I remain deeply grateful for the resilience and determination our community has shown in rebuilding.

For those with questions about flood-prone areas, I encourage you to review the newly updated floodplain map, now available on the Village municipal website at Ruidoso-NM.gov. We've also compiled a comprehensive FAQ section to address common questions and concerns from residents.

Remember to tune in to KRUI 99.1 FM or 1490 AM—The Mountain every Monday from 8:00 to 10:00 AM for 'Mondays with the Ma’or' (or stream it) to get the inside scoop on all things VOR.

Finally, our community has faced significant challenges in the past year, but togethewe'ree'r moving forward toward a brighter future. I look forward to seeing you all at our summer events as we celebrate the strength and spirit that make Ruidoso so special.

Mayor Lynn Crawford